Oil Prices Pause After Rally Amid Venezuela Exports and Iran Supply Concerns

Oil prices paused after a four-day rally as Venezuela resumed exports, easing supply concerns. However, ongoing protests in Iran and threats of US military action have heightened fears of disruptions from the OPEC member, supporting price volatility. US crude inventories rose unexpectedly, adding mixed signals to the market. Analysts note that while Iranian protests have not yet affected main oil-producing areas, geopolitical risks are increasing, with Brent futures outlook raised to $70 a barrel over the next three months.