📈 Oil Prices Dip 1% Amid Signals of De-escalation in U.S.-Iran Conflict

Oil prices retreated in Asian trading on Tuesday as markets reacted to reports of a potential shift in U.S. diplomatic strategy regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran. • Market Performance: Brent crude futures for May fell by $1.22 (1.08%) to US$ 111.56 per barrel, while U.S. WTI dropped 0.95% to US$ 101.90. This follows a volatile March where Brent surged 59% due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. • Geopolitical Context: Prices eased following reports that U.S. President Donald Trump may be open to ending military campaigns against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains partially closed. However, analysts warn that prices will remain elevated until the waterway—which carries 20% of global oil—is fully reinstated. • Supply Chain Impacts: Security Risks: A Kuwaiti tanker was reportedly struck at a Dubai port, highlighting ongoing threats to seaborne energy. Logistics: Saudi crude exports are being heavily rerouted through the Red Sea, with volumes via the Yanbu port jumping to 4.658 million bpd from a 770,000 bpd average in early 2026. • National Significance: As a net importer of refined petroleum and crude oil, Sri Lanka remains highly sensitive to these global price fluctuations. Sustained high prices impact the transportation and manufacturing sectors, adding pressure to national forex reserves and domestic energy costs. _Note: Market sentiment remains volatile based on provisional diplomatic reports._