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Brent $100 Crude Spurs UK Inflation, Medicine Cost Surge

4/25/2026

25 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Brent crude rose 1.7% to $100.16 as the Iran-U.S. conflict kept the Strait of Hormuz partially closed.
UK inflation hit 3.3% in March, driven by the sharpest three-year fuel-price rise as oil neared $100 a barrel.
England pharmacists said essential medicines rose up to 30% in price, forcing 20-30% surcharges and product halts.
Karex Bhd announced a 20-30% price hike and longer shipping after the Iran war disrupted petrochemical supplies.

History

Historical Context

In October 1973 OAPEC launched an oil embargo against nations supporting Israel, prompting Saudi Arabia and Iran to dominate supply. The embargo lifted barrel prices from $3 to $12, a rise of about 300%, and the shock rippled through the 1970s economy. Today renewed Iran-U.S. tensions in the Strait of Hormuz echo that pattern, pushing Brent above $100 and stoking inflation.

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Story summary

Brent crude rose 1.7% to $100.16 as the Iran-U.S. conflict kept the Strait of Hormuz partially closed.
UK inflation hit 3.3% in March, driven by the sharpest three-year fuel-price rise as oil neared $100 a barrel.
England pharmacists said essential medicines rose up to 30% in price, forcing 20-30% surcharges and product halts.
Karex Bhd announced a 20-30% price hike and longer shipping after the Iran war disrupted petrochemical supplies.

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