India, Aug. 11 -- Mortgage rates moved higher today. The average interest rate on a 30-year fixed purchase mortgage rose to 6.861%, up from 6.823% yesterday, according to Zillow data provided. For borrowers looking to refinance, the average 30-year refinance rate is 6.973%, while the 15-year refinance rate is 5.998%.

Mortgage rates have risen since the US war in Iran began in late February. When the Middle East conflict looks like it is getting worse, mortgage rates usually move higher along with 10-year US Treasury yields, which are a key benchmark for mortgage rates.

Rates can fall when the conflict appears closer to ending. When there are signs that the Middle East conflict could move toward a resolution, Treasury yields and mortgage...