U.S. negotiators show little appetite for concessions as $90s WTI environment eases pressure for immediate ceasefire resolution.
As drone and missile strikes continue between the U.S. and Iran, Washington's negotiating position appears to be hardening rather than softening toward a resolution. Conversations at the 10th annual Atlantic Council Global Energy Forum revealed minimal discussion of American concessions or Iranian capitulation, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The current $90s-and-below WTI price environment appears to be providing the White House increased confidence to pursue more maximalist objectives, thereby extending the conflict timeline.
Both the Trump administration officials and regional leaders from the Gulf were adamant that Iran would not exercise any control rights over the Strait of Hormuz at the conclusion of the conflict or receive compensation for allowing transit through the waterway. This raises a fundamental question about the type of measures Washington and its regional allies are willing to take to ensure full reopening of the critical waterway.
Read the full piece — "Washington shows urgency deficit amid Iran conflict and low oil prices."