Fresh uncertainty has emerged over possible diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran, with the White House describing plans as “fluid” and warning that ongoing speculation should not be considered final.
The development follows conflicting signals from both sides, as Donald Trump claimed he had postponed planned strikes on Iranian power facilities after what he described as “productive” engagements with Tehran. Iranian officials, however, swiftly dismissed the claim, branding reports of such talks as “fake news.”
Nonetheless, despite the diplomatic confusion, global oil markets have reacted sharply. The price of Brent crude rebounded above $100 per barrel after an earlier plunge, climbing to $103.69 in Asian trading. Meanwhile, Nymex Light Sweet crude also rose to $91.55, reflecting renewed market anxiety.
Oil prices had fallen by more than 10 per cent earlier in the week after Trump signalled a pause in military escalation and hinted at a possible peace deal. However, investor sentiment shifted again following Tehran’s denial of any direct negotiations.
Adding another layer to the diplomatic puzzle, an Iranian foreign ministry official disclosed that the country had received “points” from Washington through intermediaries, suggesting that indirect communication channels may still be open.
