Oil Prices Could Soar Past $100 if US Strikes Iran

Strategist lays out potential scenarios for oil prices in event of US military action against Iran

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

David Neuhauser, Chief Investment Officer at Livermore Partners, discussed the potential market impact if the United States were to launch a military strike against Iran. Neuhauser outlined several possible oil price scenarios, including the possibility of crude oil prices surging past $100 per barrel in the event of such an escalation.

Why it matters

Tensions between the US and Iran have been high in recent years, raising concerns about potential military conflict that could disrupt global oil supplies and send prices skyrocketing. Neuhauser's analysis provides insight into how financial markets may react to a hypothetical US strike on Iran.

The details

In his interview with CNBC, Neuhauser discussed several potential oil price scenarios if the US were to attack Iran. He said oil could spike to $110-$120 per barrel in the short-term, and potentially reach as high as $150 per barrel if the conflict escalated further. Neuhauser noted that such a sharp rise in oil prices would have significant economic ramifications, potentially tipping the US and global economy into recession.

  • The interview with David Neuhauser aired on CNBC on February 20, 2026.

The players

David Neuhauser

Chief Investment Officer at Livermore Partners, an investment management firm based in Livermore, California.

Dan Murphy

CNBC anchor who conducted the interview with David Neuhauser.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Oil could spike to $110-$120 per barrel in the short-term, and potentially reach as high as $150 per barrel if the conflict escalated further.”

— David Neuhauser, Chief Investment Officer (CNBC)

What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor tensions between the US and Iran, as well as any signs of potential military conflict, in order to assess the potential impact on global oil markets and the broader economy.

The takeaway

A US military strike on Iran could send oil prices soaring, potentially causing significant economic disruption and raising the risk of a recession. Investors and policymakers will be closely watching the situation for any further escalation.