Oil Prices Soar as Trump Enters Iranian Wizarding War (No, Really!)

Accio Oil Prices!

Honestly you wouldn't believe the mess the Muggle world has gotten itself into now! It seems President Trump bless his heart (or maybe not) has decided to directly engage in… well let's call it a *disagreement* with Iran. And what do Muggles do when they disagree? Apparently they attack nuclear sites. As if we needed more things to worry about! As a result of this oil futures have gone absolutely bonkers. Up they soar like a rogue Bludger heading straight for Harry during a Quidditch match.

The Numbers Game (or Why I Should Have Paid More Attention in Arithmancy)

US crude oil is up $1.07 settling at $74.91 a barrel. Brent crude that's the global benchmark is also up reaching $78.08. Of course they hit even higher overnight cracking $81 before settling down a bit. It is like trying to understand Snape just when you think you understand him he does something unexpected. Honestly it's all a bit like trying to understand advanced Arithmancy – utterly baffling! I mean who knew Muggle politics could be so volatile? It is enough to make one want to hide in the library with a good book. *Oh wait I already do that.*

The Strait of Hormuz: A Choke Point More Dangerous Than Devil's Snare

Now this Strait of Hormuz business is particularly worrisome. Apparently 20% of the world's oil goes through this narrow waterway. If Iran decides to close it well let's just say it would be more disruptive than Peeves the Poltergeist at a Prefects' meeting. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says it would be "economic suicide" for Iran but honestly that doesn't make me feel any better. Reminds me of the time Ron tried to brew a simple sleeping draught and nearly blew up the entire Potions classroom. Some things just aren't worth the risk!

China's Role: More Important Than You Think

Secretary Rubio is also urging China to intervene. Apparently they rely heavily on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil imports. It's a bit like relying on Gilderoy Lockhart for defense against the Dark Arts – utterly foolish! But perhaps China can use its influence to prevent further escalation. One can only hope. I really do think that some people think that it is "leviOsa" and not "leviosA" when it comes to solving problems.

Libya's Ghost and Regional Tensions: A Recipe for Disaster

The article also mentions the potential for further destabilization in Iran and neighboring Iraq. Remember what happened in Libya after Gaddafi was ousted? Chaos! It's like the aftermath of a particularly nasty dragon fight – messy and unpredictable. And with pro Tehran militias threatening Washington it's all starting to sound a bit like the lead up to the Second Wizarding War. *shudders* I really hope they will stop before they start to yell "expelliarmus"!

A Glimmer of Hope? Saudi Arabia and Emergency Oil Stocks

There is a tiny sliver of hope though. Apparently Iran and Saudi Arabia have recently revived diplomatic ties which *might* help de escalate things. And the International Energy Agency has 1.2 billion barrels of emergency stocks on standby. It's not much but it's something. Like having a trusty wand when facing a Dementor. Speaking of which I think I need a strong cup of tea and a good book. All this Muggle drama is exhausting!