Oil prices fall as markets look to Iran truce, but remain wary of attacks on oil facilities

Oil prices dipped marginally on Friday as traders balanced the potential of a US-Iranian truce with concerns over Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities following a week of price surges. Brent crude fell 87 cents, or 0.82%, to $105.73 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) slid $1.56, or 1.65%, to $93.05 a barrel. The muted response marked a contrast to the volatile week when prices surged as high as a one-week high on Thursday, with both contracts rallying up to 5%.

Brent hit its highest close since September 15 and WTI saw its first gain in days, following a steep six-session decline and a 6.42% weekly drop. The gap between Brent and WTI widened to its widest level since May, reaching $12.68, reflecting regional risk differences. US and Iranian negotiators are discussing a phased de-escalation plan that would see Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. lift sanctions.

Since February's war began, approximately one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments have been disrupted, causing March prices to jump 50% and LNG buyers to seek alternative energy sources. On Thursday, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian told Fox News it was up to the U.S. to decide if the Iran conflict ends. Saudi Arabia intercepted six Houthi missiles targeting the southern province of Taif and the Red Sea port of Yanbu, highlighting that key oil assets remain vulnerable to attack.