BP has been criticised after revealing its strongest quarterly profits for four years after being boosted by volatile energy prices during the Middle East conflict. Last week, BP said it was putting its North Sea business up for sale after 60 years of production. The sharp jump in profits, which surpassed analyst predictions, came as its refining and trading business benefited from rising prices during the Iran war. Rivals including Shell and ExxonMobil have also reported stronger profits after the boost linked to the conflict. Last week, BP said it was putting its UK North Sea business up for sale after 60 years of production.