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

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.

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. But various reports and expert assessments indicate the unrest is posing a major threat to Tehran’s authority.

In particular, the ...