Oil prices rise as bloody crackdown on Iran protests suggests Tehran fears a 'dire security threat to the regime' with loyalty of forces in doubt | Fortune
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Oil prices rise as bloody crackdown on Iran protests suggests Tehran fears a 'dire security threat to the regime' with loyalty of forces in doubt | Fortune
"Crude oil futures pointed to continued gains on Sunday as markets weighed potentially transformative events in Iran, which has been wracked by protests across the country. U.S. oil prices rose 0.56% to $59.45 a barrel, and Brent crude climbed 0.52% to $63.67 a barrel, as reports said President Donald Trump is weighing military options in Iran to follow through on his threats to attack if the government kills protestors."
""There are further indications that the ongoing protests are challenging the ability and willingness of Iranian security forces to crack down on the protests," the think tank said in a recent report. "The IRGC Intelligence Organization released a statement on January 10 that it is 'dealing with possible acts of abandonment.' This statement suggests that some Iranian security forces may have already defected or that the regime is very concerned about this possibility.""
"Iran, which pumps 3 million-4 million barrels per day, has seen protests spread nationwide amid an economic crisis. Human rights groups estimate hundreds have died from the government's crackdown, as the regime's piecemeal attempts to appease Iranians have failed. The government cut off internet access in the country last week, slowing the flow of information on the latest developments."
Crude oil futures rose as markets reacted to potential U.S. military options and escalating unrest in Iran. U.S. oil prices reached $59.45 a barrel and Brent crude hit $63.67 a barrel. Iran produces roughly 3–4 million barrels per day and is experiencing nationwide protests amid an economic crisis. Human rights groups estimate hundreds have died in the government crackdown. The government imposed an internet shutdown that limited information flow. The Institute for the Study of War reported signs of cracks in Iran's security apparatus, including concerns about defections and instances of forces refusing to fire on protesters.
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