USO is trading 3.2% up today as crude benchmarks extend their rally on escalating U.S.–Iran conflict and renewed threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global oil supply.

  • Recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian targets and threats to close the Strait of Hormuz have reinforced a geopolitical risk premium, pushing the fund up approximately 13% over the past week.
  • The move appears to be sector-specific rather than a general risk-on bid, as broader equities remain weak despite the rally in energy markets.