Global crude oil prices fell even as renewed fighting between the United States and Iran boosted concerns about supply disruptions. Market checks reported that Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) both eased by about 2%, with Brent down to $76 per barrel from $77 and WTI slipping to $71 per barrel from $73 at the time of reporting.
Timeline of the US-Iran escalation and oil-market reaction
Earlier in the week, US President Donald Trump announced an end to a ceasefire with Iran, a move that helped trigger a jump in crude prices on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, the US, led by Trump, carried out new lethal airstrikes targeting Iran.
In response, Iran launched a retaliatory strike that hit US allies including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
By Thursday, oil prices showed a partial unwind, with Brent and WTI both trading lower than the levels seen before the Wednesday spike.
Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa’s leading independent entertainment news sites.
Following ZAlebs’ transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC’s Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.
Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.
