Trump's Iran Talks Spark Oil Price Plunge
Oil prices plummeted on Monday as US President Donald Trump announced new negotiations with Iran to ease tensions in the Middle East. This move comes after a weekend of developments, including a deal between the US and Israel to suspend planned strikes on Iran.
The announcement led to a sharp decline in Brent crude futures for September delivery, which dropped 4.69% to $83.81 a barrel. Meanwhile, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 4.67% to $80.72 a barrel, both recorded at around 22:50 GMT on Sunday.
Iran said it was close to reaching an agreement with Oman regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil supplies pass. Trump's new round of negotiations with Iran is set to begin, boosting expectations of easing tensions and reducing the risk of disruptions to global energy supplies.