Iran Rejects Direct Talks with U.S., Oil Prices Break Through $100

Gate News: On Thursday, Iran announced it has no intention of engaging in direct talks with the United States, even though the U.S. proposed ceasefire plans are still under review by senior officials in Tehran. This statement immediately pushed oil prices higher. International benchmark Brent crude futures rose 1.21% to $103.46 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures increased 1.35% to $91.54 per barrel.

Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian told national media that communication through mediators does not equal negotiations with the U.S… Tehran rejected the U.S. ceasefire proposal and put forward its own conditions to end the conflict. Meanwhile, Washington and Tehran continue to offer differing statements on the progress of negotiations.

President Trump stated from the Oval Office that the U.S. and Iran are “currently engaged in negotiations” and hinted that Tehran is eager to reach an agreement. He also said that the U.S. has abandoned threats to strike Iran’s energy facilities because talks are still ongoing.

TD Securities analysts believe that although the rise in oil prices has attracted market attention, this oil crisis is unlikely to force the Federal Reserve to adopt aggressive policies. The market has already responded to rate hike risks, but TD Securities expects the Fed to remain on the sidelines, with its leadership leaning toward rate cuts later in 2026.

The firm added that as long as long-term inflation expectations remain stable and the second round of inflation shocks is manageable, the Fed may not immediately intervene in energy price fluctuations. Analysts point out that current uncertainties in the crude oil market are mainly driven by geopolitical factors, and in the short term, the U.S. policy environment is likely to remain stable.

This event highlights how tensions in the Middle East and U.S.-Iran relations directly impact the global energy market. Brent crude has broken through the $100 mark, with investors paying close attention to how oil price fluctuations could affect inflation and financial markets. (CNBC)