Trump Rejects Iranian Peace Proposal, Crude Oil Prices Soar
US President Donald Trump's rejection of Iran's peace proposal has sent crude oil prices soaring. On Monday, Brent crude futures rose 1.8% to $106.2 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 1% to $93.4 a barrel.
The uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and Middle Eastern oil supplies remains a major concern for traders. Despite Iran's proposal being transmitted through Qatari mediators, Trump rejected it on Saturday, but said US negotiators would hold further talks with Iran this week.
The conflicting signals have left investors uncertain about the prospects of a breakthrough in diplomatic relations between the US and Iran. Any progress towards an agreement could ease concerns about disruptions to crude supplies, while a further deterioration in relations could increase the risk premium embedded in oil prices.