Washington: Global oil prices declined sharply after US President Donald Trump indicated that the conflict with Iran was nearing its end.
According to market reports, US crude oil prices, which had crossed $100 per barrel earlier on Monday amid escalating tensions, fell by around six percent following Trump’s remarks and were trading near $85 per barrel.
Oil prices had surged sharply after the United States and Israel launched joint military strikes against Iran, triggering fears of supply disruptions in global energy markets.
The situation intensified after Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route through which a significant share of the world’s oil shipments passes.
Following the escalation, several Gulf countries reportedly reduced production or temporarily shut down oil refineries after Iran retaliated with missile attacks on US military bases in the Middle East, pushing prices higher.
Speaking to CBS News, President Trump said he believed the war was “pretty much complete.”
He claimed that Iran’s military capabilities had been severely degraded, stating that the country had effectively lost its naval strength, communications infrastructure and air force effectiveness.
Trump also said Iran’s missile systems had been significantly weakened and its drone manufacturing facilities had been targeted.
Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, the US president said ships were now moving through the passage but added that the United States was considering taking control of the strategic route.
President Trump further said he had someone in mind to replace Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, though he did not provide further details.