The number of oil rigs in the U.S. increased to 831 in the week ending April 5, down by 15 over the previous week, according to data released by oilfield services company Baker Hughes on Friday.
Despite the increase in the oil rig count, driven by geopolitical risks in Libya and Venezuela, international benchmark Brent crude once again breached the $70 per barrel mark on Friday and closed at $70.60 while American benchmark West Texas Intermediate finished the day at $63.17 a barrel.
On Wednesday, global oil prices pushed towards their highest levels in five months, with Brent reaching $70.20 and WTI nearing $63.
By Firdevs Yuksel
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr