Oil Prices Surge Amid Mixed Signals On Hormuz Blockade and US-Iran Peace Talks

Oil prices have staged a sharp rebound, climbing over 6% after a steep fall in the previous session, as tensions between the United States and Iran flare up again around the Strait of Hormuz. The surge follows fresh accusations from both sides of violating the ceasefire, after the US struck and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman - a move Tehran has called a provocation and a breach of agreement. The fallout is already visible on global energy markets. Nearly 800 oil tankers remain stranded around the Strait, with key routes disrupted and ports effectively blocked by both sides, creating a choke point for global crude supply. Prices have now climbed above $95 per barrel, even touching $97.5 during trading, reflecting growing uncertainty. With negotiations stalled and rhetoric hardening, markets are bracing for prolonged volatility. The next moves by Washington and Tehran - whether towards talks or further escalation - could determine the trajectory of oil prices and global economic stability.