USO is trading 3.2% higher in pre-market on September 14, 2026, as renewed Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia and intensified Iranian attacks on Gulf shipping raise concerns about disrupted exports.
- Brent and WTI futures gained roughly 3% overnight; postponed diplomacy around Hormuz added to the geopolitical risk premium.
- Saudi Arabia temporarily shut its East-West pipeline, which can bypass the Strait of Hormuz and handle roughly 4% of global oil supply.
- The move is sector-wide rather than company-specific.