U.S. stocks fall as Brent oil hits six-month high

U.S. stocks closed broadly lower on Friday as Brent oil prices surged to a six-month high, overshadowing a rebound in technology shares. The Dow fell 1.23 percent, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq also declined. Brent crude settled at 116.72 dollars a barrel, up 3.14 percent, on fears of escalating Middle East conflict following reports of potential U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran. Energy led S&P 500 sectors, while communication services lagged, with AT&T and T-Mobile each dropping about 8 percent. Investors also weighed economic data showing rising selling prices and consumer inflation expectations, though traders largely expect the Federal Reserve to hold rates steady at its upcoming meeting. American Express fell despite record revenue, while chip stocks rebounded.