 Crude oil futures have held firm as fears of war between Israel and the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah overshadowed soft U.S. gasoline demand. Coastal flooding due to Tropical Storm Alberto also hit U.S. gasoline demand, with consumption coming in below 9 million barrels for the first time in three weeks. West Texas Intermediate's August contract gained 50 cents to $81.40 per barrel. Brent's August contract is up 61 cents to $85.86 per barrel.