WTI crude oil futures jumped over 2.7% in the pre-market session amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The primary drivers are renewed Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Compounding supply fears is the temporary shutdown of a major Saudi Arabian pipeline, a key export route that bypasses the strait, following drone strikes. The postponement of talks between Gulf nations and Iran has further heightened market anxiety about the stability of crucial oil transit routes.