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● LIVE Updated 12h ago · 47 sources tracked

Oil drops more than $2 despite new US sanctions on Iran

Brent crude oil is trading near $107 as Middle East tensions persist. This price movement follows August core CPI growth of 0.3%, which has pushed market odds of a September Federal Reserve rate hike to 88%. While oil prices remain elevated, the broader geopolitical situation includes an Air Force colonel recounting his survival after being shot down over Iran. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated he expects the war with Iran to conclude this year, possibly shortly after the US midterm elections in November.

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What changed

Brent crude is now nearing $107 and the market expects an 88% chance of a September Fed rate hike.

Live updates

  1. Brent Crude Nears $107 Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict

    Brent crude oil is trading near $107 as Middle East tensions persist. This price movement follows August core CPI growth of 0.3%, which has pushed market odds of a September Federal Reserve rate hike to 88%. While oil prices remain elevated, the broader geopolitical situation includes an Air Force colonel recounting his survival after being shot down over Iran. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated he expects the war with Iran to conclude this year, possibly shortly after the US midterm elections in November.

    Why it matters

    The conflict impacts global energy markets and shipping stability in the Strait of Hormuz. Previous reports noted a decline in vessel transits and warnings from the International Energy Agency regarding supply shortfalls extending to 2027. Current market volatility is linked to both geopolitical strife and US inflation data.

    What is confirmed

    • Core CPI rose 0.3% in August.
    • Brent crude is trading near $107.

    Still unconfirmed

    • President Donald Trump expects the war with Iran to end this year, potentially shortly after the US midterm elections.
    • A US Air Force colonel survived being shot down over Iran.

    What to watch next

    • The US midterm elections in November
    • September Federal Reserve interest rate decision
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.briefs.co — UK's richest now shoulder £100 billion more in income tax than after the crisis
    2. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — US-Iran War Live Updates: 'In interests of consesus' - Iran's regional meeting with Gulf states postponed
    3. www.briefs.co — China Eyes August Data As A Make-Or-Break Moment For Stimulus
    4. www.briefs.co — Gold Slips as Hotter US Inflation Lifts Odds of September Fed Hike
    5. www.foxnews.com — US Air Force colonel shot down over Iran recounts 'modern-day miracle'
    confidence 80%
  2. Oil prices drop as US stocks rise on inflation data

    Oil prices fell on Friday, aiding a sharp climb in US stocks. The Dow gained 1.23%, the S&P 500 rose 1.05%, and the Nasdaq increased 1.08% following August inflation data showing consumer prices grew 0.4%. Despite this market shift, the International Energy Agency has trimmed its oil supply forecast and warned that a prolonged supply shortfall could extend to 2027. Meanwhile, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains low, falling to seven vessel transits on Thursday from 11 the previous day.

    Why it matters

    The market is reacting to a cycle of hostilities between the United States and Iran. Recent attacks on oil facilities and shipping in the Middle East previously pushed prices above $100 a barrel. A protracted war now looms with no immediate sign of a ceasefire.

    What is confirmed

    • The Dow gained 1.23%, the S&P 500 1.05%, and the Nasdaq 1.08% on Friday.
    • August inflation data showed consumer prices increased 0.4%.
    • The International Energy Agency trimmed its oil supply forecast due to Middle East conflicts and strained refineries.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Vessel transits at the Strait of Hormuz fell to seven on Thursday from 11 the previous day.
    • A prolonged supply shortfall may extend to 2027 as Brent climbs above $100.

    What to watch next

    • Federal Reserve rate decisions based on sticky inflation data
    • Changes in vessel transit volumes through the Strait of Hormuz
    • Updates on ceasefire negotiations between the US and Iran
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. www.livemint.com — Iran war news LIVE: Shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz hovers in single digits as tensions escalate, shows data
    2. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Dow Jones| Nasdaq | S&P 500 | US Stock Market Today |Live Updates: US stocks climb as inflation data, falling oil lift sentiment
    3. www.foxnews.com — Trump says no regrets about Iran war; Saudi Arabia strikes Red Sea port city airport held by Houthis
    4. www.decaturdaily.com — Iran, US brace for long war with neither side ceding ground
    5. www.briefs.co — IEA trims oil outlook as wars strain refineries and prices hover near triple digits
    6. jen.jiji.com — Kazakhstan’s vegetable oil exports rise 46%
    7. www.briefs.co — IEA Cuts Oil Demand Outlook and Flags Deeper Supply Crunch
    confidence 90%
  3. Oil prices breach $100 per barrel amid Middle East attacks

    Oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel on Wednesday for the first time in months. This price surge follows a wave of attacks on ships and oil facilities in the Middle East, which threatened an already fragile supply chain. While prices rose due to these conflicts, Tehran stated it remains open to dialogue with regional nations to achieve sustainable security and foster mutual trust. This market volatility occurs as the United States and Iran continue a cycle of war and hostilities.

    Why it matters

    Global energy markets are reacting to intensified conflict between the US and Iran. These supply chain threats contrast with a projected 8.9 percent drop in Chinese oil demand for 2026 driven by electric vehicle adoption.

    What is confirmed

    • Oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel on Wednesday for the first time in months.
    • Attacks on ships and oil facilities in the Middle East threatened the supply chain.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Enemy projectiles hit Sirik areas in Iran.
    • Tehran is ready for dialogue with regional nations to foster mutual trust and achieve sustainable security.

    What to watch next

    • Official confirmation of the scale of damage to Middle East oil facilities
    • Diplomatic responses to Tehran's call for regional dialogue
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.nbcnews.com — Oil hits $100 a barrel for first time in months as Middle East conflict intensifies again
    2. apnews.com — Oil rises past $100 a barrel after the latest wave of Middle East attacks
    3. www.aljazeera.com — Iran war live: Iran media say ‘enemy’ projectiles hit Sirik areas
    4. www.marketscreener.com — UK's IG Group plans significant layoffs, Sky News reports
    confidence 90%
  4. China Oil Demand Expected to Drop Amid Surging Prices

    China anticipates an 8.9 percent decrease in oil demand for 2026, dropping 600,000 barrels per day due to high oil prices and rapid electric vehicle adoption, according to research from Sinopec. This third consecutive yearly decline in Chinese consumption contrasts with ongoing market pressures in the Middle East, where the United States and Iran continue trading strikes and threats in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US Navy allowed some oil vessels to transit the vital waterway, though overall price volatility persists as regional conflict risks drag on markets.

    Why it matters

    The drop in Chinese demand highlights shifting global consumption patterns driven by alternative vehicle adoption and sustained high energy costs. These macroeconomic factors intersect with ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, where Donald Trump's administration faces persistent security threats to regional energy infrastructure. Analysts monitor how reduced Chinese consumption balances against supply risks stemming from maritime blockades and threats to the Strait of Hormuz.

    What is confirmed

    • China's oil demand is expected to fall by 600,000 barrels a day in 2026, or 8.9% from the previous year, according to Sinopec's research arm.
    • The decline marks a third straight annual decrease in Chinese oil consumption, driven by high oil prices and accelerated electric vehicle adoption.
    • The US Navy has allowed some oil to transit the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway.
    • The United States and Iran continued to trade strikes and threats in the Strait of Hormuz.

    What to watch next

    • Whether further restrictions or total blockades in the Strait of Hormuz will completely halt regional oil shipments
    • Updates from the United Nations regarding potential resolutions targeting Iranian nuclear non-compliance
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.foxnews.com — Iran-backed Houthi rebels attack Saudi Arabia in major escalation that injures dozens
    2. www.yahoo.com — ‘It’s devastating’: New study finds students’ reading scores continue to drop
    3. www.smh.com.au — As Trump’s Iran war drags on, we’re facing the next oil crunch
    4. www.marketscreener.com — China oil demand to fall 8.9% in 2026, Sinopec research says
    confidence 100%
  5. Iran threatens Gulf energy assets as US pushes for UN nuclear resolution

    Iran is threatening to strike US oil and gas assets and establish a restricted exclusion zone in the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation follows a US naval blockade that has reduced Iranian oil exports to zero. Meanwhile, Washington plans to introduce a UN resolution demanding Iran restore nuclear inspection access and remedy non-compliance. Regional instability has increased as Houthi rebels attacked Saudi oil facilities, including a refinery in Jazan, wounding over 70 people. These developments occur while crude oil prices have dropped by more than two dollars despite the sanctions.

    Why it matters

    The US is utilizing a combination of naval blockades and diplomatic pressure to isolate Tehran. Iran has responded by adopting a recalibrated military posture and threatening economic warfare. These tensions risk disrupting global energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

    What is confirmed

    • Iran has threatened to strike US oil and gas assets in the Gulf.
    • Iran plans to announce a new restricted exclusion zone in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Houthi rebels wounded over 70 people in attacks on Saudi oil facilities, including a Jazan refinery.

    What to watch next

    • The introduction and vote on the proposed UN resolution regarding Iranian nuclear inspections.
    • Official announcement of the coordinates and rules for the Iranian exclusion zone in the Strait of Hormuz.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. aapnews.aap.com.au — Iran warns US over 'vulnerable' Gulf energy assets
    2. www.aol.com — Iran says it plans new Gulf 'exclusion zone', threatens US with new missiles
    3. www.europesays.com — US moves to ramp up pressure on Iran at UN as Tehran warns of ‘recalibrated’ military posture
    4. www.usatoday.com — Iran says it plans new Gulf 'exclusion zone', threatens US with new missiles
    5. www.wktv.com — National and International News in Focus: Sept. 8
    confidence 85%
  6. Oil prices fall as Iran exports hit zero amid naval blockade

    Crude oil prices dropped by more than two dollars despite new US sanctions on Tehran. A US naval blockade has reduced Iranian oil exports to zero, an outcome that financial sanctions failed to achieve over several years. While the US Navy escorts vessels through the Strait of Hormuz at night, Iran has threatened retaliation against US energy infrastructure in the Gulf. Simultaneously, Russia has pledged unlimited oil supplies to India despite potential US tariffs, and the US faces legal risks regarding oil concessions in Venezuela.

    Why it matters

    The Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed due to tanker attacks and conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. This blockade creates a supply shock that competes with financial efforts to isolate Tehran. Global markets are now adjusting to the total absence of Iranian crude.

    What is confirmed

    • A US naval blockade has reduced Iranian oil exports to zero.
    • The Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed amid tanker attacks and conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Trump administration claims the US Navy escorts vessels through the Strait at night.

    What to watch next

    • Evidence of Iranian retaliation against Gulf energy infrastructure
    • The status of the US bill regarding tariffs on Russian crude buyers
    • Legal challenges to Venezuela oil concessions
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Banking on the dollar: How Iran keeps $9bn flowing through US banks despite sanctions
    2. finance.yahoo.com — Former Trump Economic Adviser: Iran’s Oil Exports Have Fallen to Zero. Here’s What It Could Mean for Oil Prices
    3. oilprice.com — Russia Vows to Keep Selling Oil to India Despite U.S. Tariff Threat
    4. oilprice.com — Washington’s Venezuela Oil Deal Is About Much More Than Crude
    5. tucson.com — Iran: US energy assets in Gulf are vulnerable
    confidence 80%
  7. Strait of Hormuz Shuts as Crisis Continues

    Crude oil prices dropped by more than two dollars despite fresh American sanctions targeting Tehran as the Iran crisis entered September. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed amid tanker attacks and ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Three senior Iranian officials reported mounting strain from the naval blockade and economic measures, while Pakistani mediation efforts continue without a diplomatic breakthrough. Meanwhile, the Trump administration asserts that the US Navy continues escorting numerous vessels through the Strait at night.

    Why it matters

    The Strait of Hormuz functions as a critical oil trade route, and disruptions there carry heavy global economic and human impacts. Concurrently, broader energy supply dynamics are shifting as green bond issuance reaches record levels and the United States, Japan, and South Korea form a nuclear energy alliance to counter Chinese and Russian influence.

    What is confirmed

    • Crude prices fell by more than two dollars despite fresh American sanctions targeting Tehran.
    • The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed as a six-month crisis grinds into September amid tanker attacks.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The United States struck an Iranian oil carrier off Kharg Island.

    What to watch next

    • Developments regarding nighttime US Navy escorts through the Strait of Hormuz
    • Progress or failure in Pakistani mediation efforts
    • Status of shipping operations around Kharg Island
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. oilprice.com — Green Bonds Hit Record High Despite Persistent Challenges
    2. www.ibtimes.com.au — Strait Of Hormuz Remains Effectively Closed As Six-Month Iran Crisis Grinds Into September Amid Tanker Attacks
    3. jen.jiji.com — Foreign media on Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan enters new political era after historic parliamentary reform; Kazakhstan’s Tokayev appoints longtime adviser as vice presi…
    4. oilprice.com — Japan, South Korea and the U.S. Forge a New Nuclear Alliance
    5. www.yahoo.com — US strikes Iranian oil carrier off Kharg Island
    confidence 90%
  8. Oil Drops Despite New US Sanctions as Iran Struggles Under Blockade

    Crude prices fell by more than two dollars despite fresh American sanctions targeting Tehran. Three senior Iranian officials reported that the nation faces mounting strain from the naval blockade and economic measures. Meanwhile, the Trump administration asserted that the U.S. Navy continues escorting numerous vessels through the Strait of Hormuz at night, movements that commercial trackers often miss. Pakistani mediation efforts persist without yielding a diplomatic breakthrough. Simultaneously, Russian official Novak characterized that nation's recent petroleum output drop as temporary while refineries resume operations.

    Why it matters

    Recent military escalations between Washington and Tehran previously pushed crude benchmarks higher and drove 30-year mortgage rates to their highest point since June 2025. The current tightening of U.S. sanctions and naval restrictions aims to completely throttle Iranian oil exports and penalize entities conducting business with Tehran. These measures unfold against a backdrop of drone attacks targeting Russian refineries and export terminals.

    What is confirmed

    • Three senior Iranian officials stated that Iran is increasingly struggling to withstand the naval blockade and economic sanctions.
    • New United States measures widen the risks for companies doing business with Tehran.
    • Pakistani mediation keeps diplomatic channels open without producing a breakthrough.
    • Russia's Novak called the oil output drop temporary as refineries restart.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The U.S. Navy is assisting dozens of ships through the Strait of Hormuz at night with many movements undetected by commercial tracking services.
    • Drone strikes on refineries and export terminals are reshaping crude forecasts.

    What to watch next

    • Whether commercial trackers detect an increase in nighttime tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz.
    • Any diplomatic breakthrough emerging from Pakistani mediation efforts.
    • The pace at which Russian refineries and export terminals recover from recent drone strikes.
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.ibtimes.com — Trump Says Oil Is Flowing Through Hormuz. Independent Trackers Show a Different Picture.
    2. nypost.com — Iran struggling to stay afloat against US economic pressures, blockade
    3. www.jns.org — Iran buys time as sanctions tighten and talks go nowhere
    4. kfgo.com — US pressure on Iran starting to tell, as sanctions and blockade bite
    5. oilprice.com — Russia Says Oil Output Drop Is Temporary as Refineries Restart
    6. www.yahoo.com — Industrial Road waste drop off center remains closed Friday after fire
    confidence 90%
  9. Oil prices jump after US and Iran exchange direct strikes

    Brent crude rose above $92 and WTI neared $88 after the US and Iran resumed direct military strikes. Brent and WTI both jumped approximately 5% following a US operation against IRGC minelaying forces on Larak Island and subsequent Iranian missile strikes on two US air bases in Jordan. This volatility pushed 30-year mortgage rates to 6.87%, the highest level since June 2025, as rising bond yields reflect inflation fears. While oil had previously trended downward, these hostilities reignited concerns over supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Why it matters

    The conflict between the US and Iran has lasted six months. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil transit point, making any military activity there a trigger for global energy price spikes.

    What is confirmed

    • The US conducted a limited, precise strike against IRGC minelaying forces on Larak Island.
    • Iran fired missiles at two US air bases in Jordan.
    • Brent crude prices rose above $92 and WTI approached $88.
    • Oil-led bond yield increases pushed 30-year mortgage rates to 6.87%.

    Still unconfirmed

    • President Trump is considering retaliation against the oil-export hub of Kharg Island.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of US retaliation targeting Kharg Island
    • Federal Reserve decisions on interest rate hikes to combat inflation
    Sources used for this update (11)
    1. www.aljazeera.com — Iran war live: Iran says navy ‘alive and well’ after Trump’s claims
    2. www.businesstimes-bd.com — Oil Prices Rise After US Strikes on Iran and Iran Hits Back
    3. www.europesays.com — U.S. reignites Iran war; Israel’s $3.5B defense deal with Greece; Details of Venezuela oil deal
    4. www.foxnews.com — Trump teases retaliation on Kharg Island after Iran strikes US bases in Jordan
    5. www.briefs.co — Oil Spike From Iran War Lifts Mortgage Rates to Highest Since June 2025
    6. www.briefs.co — Wells Fargo Analyst Says Canada's New Steel, Aluminum Tariffs Are Mostly For Show
    7. jen.jiji.com — U.S., Iran exchange strikes as tensions rise around Strait of Hormuz
    8. www.briefs.co — Iran War-Linked Oil Spike Pushes Mortgage Rates Higher
    9. www.nbcnews.com — Bond yields surge and stocks tumble as inflation fears raise the odds of an interest rate hike
    10. www.briefs.co — Oil jumps as U.S. hits IRGC in Iran and Tehran strikes U.S. bases
    11. www.briefs.co — Oil climbs as U.S.-Iran strikes resume and a tanker is hit in the Strait of Hormuz
    confidence 90%
  10. Oil benchmarks track weekly losses as mediators push to reopen Strait of Hormuz

    Oil prices are poised for a weekly decline, with Brent down 5.1% and WTI falling 4.5%. This downturn persists despite new U.S. Treasury sanctions on Iran, which Tehran labeled state terrorism. Market pressure eases as mediators from Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan work to restore traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has agreed to list conditions for reopening the waterway after a Qatari emissary urged the respect of navigation freedom. This diplomatic progress offsets the economic pressure from the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, which reached its six-month mark on Friday.

    Why it matters

    The Strait of Hormuz handled 20% of global oil supplies before the current conflict began. Its closure remains the primary obstacle to a peace deal. Meanwhile, industry analysts warn that a decade of shrinking refining capacity could lead to global refined fuel shortages.

    What is confirmed

    • Brent oil is down 5.1% and WTI is down 4.5% for the week.
    • The U.S.-Israel war against Iran began six months ago.
    • The U.S. Treasury Department announced additional targeted sanctions against Iran.
    • Mediators are working to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Global refining capacity has shrunk considerably over the past decade, risking refined fuel shortages.

    What to watch next

    • The specific conditions Tehran requires to restore traffic in the Strait of Hormuz
    • The response of other nations to Iran's request not to implement U.S. sanctions
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.cnbc.com — Oil holds steady, on track for weekly fall on US-Iran talks stalemate
    2. www.nbcnews.com — Iran war mediators focus on reopening Strait of Hormuz
    3. leadership.ng — Analysts Warn Of Global Refined Fuel Shortages Following Sustained Middle East, Russia-Ukraine War
    4. www.click2houston.com — The Latest: Iran war reaches its six-month mark as Trump shifts focus
    5. english.aawsat.com — Iran Urges Other Nations Not to Join New US Sanctions, Mediators Focus on Reopening Strait
    confidence 90%
  11. Oil prices decline as diplomacy targets Strait of Hormuz reopening

    Oil prices continue to fall as traders reduce the geopolitical risk premium associated with Middle East supply. This downturn follows diplomatic efforts by Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Naeem Aslam of Zaye Capital Markets attributes the price easing to a phased reopening plan and claims from President Trump that U.S. forces cleared mines from the main shipping lane. These developments offset the impact of recent U.S. sanctions on Iran, as the market bets on reduced probability of a physical supply shock.

    Why it matters

    The U.S. has applied military and political pressure on Iran for six months to force a surrender. While the U.S. Treasury warns countries to sever financial ties with Tehran, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains vulnerable to attacks.

    What is confirmed

    • Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan are involved in diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
    • The U.S. has been applying military and political pressure to Iran since February.
    • The USS Theodore Roosevelt is scheduled to sail to the Middle East.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Qatar prime minister visited the Iranian capital on Thursday.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of the Strait of Hormuz reopening timeline
    • Outcome of diplomatic talks between Iran and Qatari officials
    • Verification of mine clearance in shipping lanes
    Sources used for this update (8)
    1. www.yahoo.com — Iran, Oman edge toward Strait of Hormuz reopening plan, but Tehran demands U.S. lift blockade
    2. www.cnn.com — USS Theodore Roosevelt set to sail to the Middle East as Trump claims US sanctions will win war
    3. www.econotimes.com — Asia Roundup: Yen barely moves after BOJ comments on possible rate hikes, Asian stocks gain, Gold drifts higher, Oil extends losses-August 27th,2026
    4. oilprice.com — Oil Prices Fall as Qatar Pushes New Hormuz Talks
    5. www.rigzone.com — Analyst Explains Why Oil Prices Are Easing
    6. islamabadpost.com.pk — Will US sanctions on Iran bite? It may depend on China
    7. www.wmar2news.com — After six months of war in Iran, is the US achieving its goals?
    8. www.briefs.co — Best Buy Beats Q2 Forecasts Despite Stock Decline Amid Economic Concerns
    confidence 85%
  12. Oil drops over $2 as US sanctions Iran

    Oil prices fell more than $2 as the US launches new sanctions on Iran, with Brent at $86.80 a barrel and WTI at $80.87. The US Treasury Secretary warned countries to sever financial ties with Iran or face retaliation. Despite the sanctions, oil prices have continued to drop.

    Why it matters

    The decline in oil prices comes as investors weigh the impact of expanded US sanctions on Iran. The US launched 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran. The new sanctions aim to pressure Iran's economy.

    What is confirmed

    • The US launched new sanctions on Iran.
    • Brent oil price fell to $86.80 a barrel.
    • WTI oil price dropped to $80.87.
    • The US Treasury Secretary warned countries to sever financial ties with Iran or face retaliation.
    • Iran and Oman proposed a temporary shipping lane and demining effort in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Still unconfirmed

    • President Trump said the US is achieving a "very big victory" in the war with Iran.

    What to watch next

    • Further developments in US-Iran sanctions
    • Impact on global oil supply and prices
    • Iran's response to the new sanctions
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.cnn.com — Iran and Oman outline plan for temporary Strait of Hormuz shipping lane; US rolls out sanctions
    2. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Stock Market Today Highlights: Benchmark indices end in red; Sensex falls 183 points, Nifty sheds 127 points
    3. www.yahoo.com — Trump insists U.S. achieving "very big victory" in war with Iran
    4. oilprice.com — Global Oil Security Looks Shakier as Conflicts Hit 45 Million Bpd of Supply
    confidence 90%
  13. Oil drops over $2 despite new US sanctions on Iran

    Oil prices fell more than $2 as investors weigh the impact of expanded US sanctions on Iran. The decline in oil prices comes as the US launches 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran. Despite the new sanctions, oil prices have continued to drop, with Brent falling to $86.80 a barrel and WTI dropping to $80.87. The US Treasury Secretary announced the new sanctions, warning countries to sever financial ties with Iran or face retaliation.

    Why it matters

    The US sanctions on Iran are aimed at intensifying economic pressure on the country. The new sanctions come as part of the US's 'toughest' stance on Iran, with investors awaiting the full impact of the measures. The drop in oil prices has helped calm the stock and bond markets, easing worries over global crude supplies.

    What is confirmed

    • Oil prices fell more than $2 despite new US sanctions on Iran
    • The US launched 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran
    • Brent fell to $86.80 a barrel and WTI dropped to $80.87
    • US Treasury Secretary announced new sanctions on Iran

    Still unconfirmed

    • Iran's head of national security warned that any country supporting US sanctions against Tehran would be considered an 'act of war'

    What to watch next

    • US stock market reaction to Nvidia results
    • Impact of US sanctions on Iran's economy
    • Development in Iran-Oman discussions on Strait of Hormuz
    Sources used for this update (13)
    1. CNBC — Oil prices fall as investors await 'toughest' U.S. sanctions on Iran
    2. WSJ — Stock Market Today: Tech Stocks Under Pressure — Live Updates
    3. The New York Times — Oil Prices Fall Ahead of U.S. Vow to Intensify Economic War Against Iran
    4. www.foxnews.com — Trump admin's 'economic D-Day' to hammer Iran with new sanctions
    5. Yahoo Finance — Oil drops more than $2 despite new US sanctions on Iran
    6. Reuters — Oil prices steady as investors weigh impact of expanded US sanctions against Iran
    7. www.arkansasonline.com — Iran hit with new sanctions
    8. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Dow Jones| Nasdaq | S&P 500 | US Stock Market Today |Live Updates: US stocks open higher as tech stocks rebound before Nvidia results, data
    9. www.cnbctv18.com — 11:11 | Oil falls as US launches ‘Operation Economic Outcast’ against Iran; TCS eyes Europe expansion with Porsche deal
    10. www.bostonherald.com — Falling oil prices help calm the stock and bond markets
    11. www.freepressjournal.in — Oil Prices Fall Over 2.5% As Strait Of Hormuz Reopening Hopes Ease Global Supply Concerns
    12. www.investorschronicle.co.uk — Yields ease as oil price falls
    confidence 85%