Global crude prices have risen after the United States launched cruise missiles against an air base in Syria, pushing shares in ASX-listed energy companies sharply higher.
Benchmark US West Texas Intermediate crude futures jumped nearly two per cent, or US93 cents, to $US52.63 a barrel - their highest level in a month.
Brent crude futures rose US90 cents, or about 1.5 per cent, to $US55.79 a barrel.
"We are seeing a precautionary rally in oil prices in response to the air strikes," CMC Markets' chief analyst Ric Spooner said.
"Syria itself is a very small producer but there are concerns that this action may trigger hostilities that could lead to disruption in supplies from larger producers in the region," he said.
Earlier on Friday - Thursday night in the United States - U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the strikes against a Syrian air base controlled by President Bashar al-Assad's forces, in response to a deadly chemical attack in a rebel-held area, U.S. officials said.
The crude oil rally, in turn pushed up local energy stocks and by 1445 AEST the S&P/ASX 200 Energy index had jumped 2.1 per cent
Shares in Woodside Petroleum and Oil Search were trading more than 1.5 per cent higher, while Santos and Origin Energy had climbed more than three per cent each.
"As long as the situation does not escalate, this should remain a one-off rally," Mr Spooner said.
"Oil prices have been on the rise lately and were close to the top of the range, given the demand-supply situation."
Mr Spooner said he expects prices in the energy sector to remain buoyant for a couple of days as situation in Syria evolves.
Currently the world is wating to see the reaction from Syria and from its supporters - Russia and Iran - to the US attack.
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