<p>Iran’s IRGC says it hit four vessels in the northern Gulf and three more struck mines near the strait of Hormuz</p><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/mar/04/maritime-and-port-workers-how-is-the-middle-east-conflict-affecting-you">Shipping workers: how is the Middle East conflict affecting you?</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2026/oct/22/barclays-profits-jump-looming-bank-tax-french-bond-yields-hit-fresh-24-year-high-latest-live-updates">Business live – latest updates</a></p></li></ul><p>Oil prices jumped to a five-month high on Thursday after ​attacks in Saudi Arabia and hits to tankers in the strait of Hormuz threatened further disruptions to the world’s crude supply.</p><p>Brent crude, the international benchmark for oil prices, rose by 3% to hit $112 a barrel for first time since 18 May.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/oct/22/oil-prices-jump-five-month-high-threats-supply">Continue reading...</a>