The president-elect could adopt a more aggressive stance towards Iran, interrupting oil supplies and raising prices, analysts warn
A promise by US President-elect Donald Trump that there will be “hell” if Hamas does not release Israeli hostages before his inauguration could tip the oil-rich Middle East into protracted conflict, sparking fears among analysts that Energy-hungry Asian economies could face higher prices.
Hamas-led militants captured more than 250 people during the deadly attack on Israel last year, and some of them are still believed to be alive. U.S. efforts to broker a release have failed for more than a year, even as President Joe Biden’s administration makes a final push.
“[Se] If the hostages are not released before January 20, 2025, the date on which I assume the office of President of the United States, there will be HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those responsible for these atrocities against humanity,” Trump wrote in a social media post on Monday.
The US approach to the Middle East under Trump is likely to be more aggressive towards Iran – one of Hamas’s main allies – which could pose the risk of disruption to oil supplies to energy-heavy Asia, although many analysts still hope for a long-term resolution of the conflict.
“Trump’s threat is definitely positive for oil prices in the short term,” said Gnanasekar Thiagarajan, founder of Commtrendz Research. “The US may end up openly supporting Israel.”
Analysts said there is a distinct possibility the president-elect will make good on his threat.
With information from South China Morning Post*
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2024/12/06/trump-ameaca-inferno-e-faz-o-petroleo-disparar/
