Brent Slips Further Ahead of President Trump Iran Update
2026-04-01 23:45
By
Farida Husna
1 min. read
Brent crude futures hovered near $100.49 per barrel on Thursday, extending their recent retreat as hopes of de-escalation in the Iran conflict, now in its fifth week, gained traction, with the White House facing growing pressure to ease tensions.
President Trump said the US could halt military strikes within two to three weeks, while keeping the option for limited “spot” attacks.
Earlier, Trump stated Iran had sought a ceasefire but stressed any deal would require Tehran to stop blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a claim Iran denied.
Markets now await his national address for further clarity.
Meanwhile, Fatih Birol of the International Energy Agency warned disruptions could intensify in April, with any prolonged closure of the Strait curbing flows and weighing on Europe.
Elsewhere, US crude stocks jumped 5.5 million barrels to 461.6 million in the week ended March 27, far above forecasts and marking a sixth straight rise, highlighting ample supply.