Brent crude hits $111 after Saudi attacks as US evacuates embassy staff

Brent crude oil prices rose to about $111 a barrel on Thursday following deadly attacks in Saudi Arabia, while US WTI crude approached $99, raising concerns about potential oil supply disruptions from escalating West Asia hostilities. The price increase came as the US ordered some personnel and their families to leave American embassies in Saudi Arabia. Brent has surged over 80 percent this year due to the US-Iran war, now nearing its ninth month, though crude exports have recently recovered toward pre-conflict levels as tankers disable transponders. Iran has intensified attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and Houthi militants have targeted Saudi Arabia. Separately, a tanker carrying Russian diesel is set to sail for the US on Thursday as Moscow begins implementing a supply deal, according to Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.