Crude oil prices rose sharply by Rs 359 to Rs 9,617 per barrel on Monday, marking their fourth straight session of gains in futures trade amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and supply concerns. On the Multi Commodity Exchange, crude oil for the April contract climbed Rs 359, or nearly 4 per cent, to Rs 9,617 per barrel. The May-delivery increased by Rs 436, or nearly 5 per cent, to hit a lifetime high of Rs 9,407 per barrel on the commodities bourse. Analysts said crude oil prices rallied in domestic and international markets as investors assessed the impact of rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. In the international market, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for the May contract gained USD 3.27, or 3.33 per cent, to USD 101.50 per barrel, while Brent Crude for the same month delivery rose USD 2.89, or 2.72 per cent, to USD 109.30 per barrel in New York. According to analysts, market sentiment remained firm after US President Dona