Oil and gas prices are rising as the conflict between Iran and the US/Israel extends to key energy-producing areas. The main energy-producing companies, such as QatarEnergy and Saudi Aramco, have ceased operations following drone attacks on their facilities. The Strait of Hormuz is closed, as it is a key route for 20% of the world's fuel supplies. The conflict is causing tankers to cease operations as well as reroute their ships. Although stock markets are unstable, experts predict that if the conflict persists, the increase in prices will cause inflation, thus halting any potential interest rate cuts by the banks.