Tehran issues threats as Trump pushes for deal
Fox News • • business
Key Points:
- The U.S. dollar fell from a six-week high as investors grew hopeful that Washington and Tehran might soon reach an agreement to end Middle East tensions, following President Trump's statement that negotiations are in their "final stages."
- Despite optimism, Trump warned that if Iran fails to agree, the U.S. could respond with further military actions, though he expressed hope that such measures would be unnecessary.
- Oil prices dropped sharply, with Brent crude futures falling nearly 6% to $104.64 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures down over 6% to $97.66, reflecting easing geopolitical risk.
- Former Trump envoy Morgan Ortagus cautioned that Iran may be using ongoing nuclear talks to stall and buy time, urging the administration not to be drawn into prolonged negotiations that could weaken U.S. leverage.
- The Trump administration has paused planned strikes and extended ceasefire talks under pressure from Gulf allies, continuing to pressure Iran over its nuclear program while leveraging a more assertive stance than previous U.S. policies.