Oil steadies as uncertainty over US-Iran talks keeps markets on edge

Published June 2, 2026 Updated June 2, 2026 07:14am

Oil prices held on to most of the previous session’s sharp gains in early trade on uncertainty over the status of ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran and the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reports.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday talks with Iran were ongoing, while Tasnim news agency reported that Tehran had suspended indirect negotiations with Washington.

Brent crude futures inched up 6 cents, or 0.06 per cent, to $95.04 a barrel at 0001 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate fell 17 cents, or 0.18pc, to $91.99 a barrel.

Opinion

Editorial

Mixed messaging
Updated 02 Jun, 2026

Mixed messaging

It is fair to ask how these actions fit into a strategy that is supposedly aimed at reaching a negotiated settlement.
Sugar: the bitter truth
02 Jun, 2026

Sugar: the bitter truth

THEY are at it again. Politically powerful sugar mill owners are back with their demand seeking permission to export...
Uphill battle
02 Jun, 2026

Uphill battle

A DISPUTE has broken out between Karachi’s political representatives over illegal encroachments on the city’s...
Budget concerns
Updated 01 Jun, 2026

Budget concerns

Mistaking IMF compliance for sound economic management is what is driving the economy into deeper stagnation.
Gaza’s tragedy
01 Jun, 2026

Gaza’s tragedy

HISTORY may record this as one of the most brazen deceptions of our time. President Donald Trump’s so called Board...
New sports policy
01 Jun, 2026

New sports policy

BETTER sense has prevailed with a new national sports policy set to be rolled out, thus preventing a clash between...