Dubai – Business News Report|| Oil prices declined by approximately two percent during trading sessions on Friday, September 25, 2026. This drop saw crude shed a portion of the gains accumulated over the previous two trading days. Investors remained cautious as they monitored evolving political developments across the Middle East region.
Market Volatility and Regional Tensions
Markets were closely assessing the possibility of a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. This diplomatic scrutiny occurred against the backdrop of Houthi rebels launching attacks on Saudi Arabia. These strikes followed a week of sustained increases in global energy prices, adding complexity to market sentiment.
Widening Price Spreads Between Benchmarks
The price differential between Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate reached its widest level since May. The spread stood at $12.68 per barrel, having previously exceeded thirteen dollars. This divergence highlights distinct risk profiles affecting each benchmark grade differently due to regional supply concerns.
Recent Trading Performance and Analyst Views
Oil prices had closed Thursday’s session with a three-point-five percent increase, marking consecutive daily gains driven by fears of continued supply shortages. By 05:57 GMT, November Brent futures fell one point zero three percent to $105.50. Meanwhile, November WTI contracts dropped one point seven eight percent to $92.93 per barrel.
Geopolitical Negotiations and Supply Disruptions
Negotiators from the US and Iran are exploring a gradual exit strategy involving reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting economic sanctions. Since the conflict began in late February, one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments have been reduced. This disruption caused prices to surge fifty percent in March alone.
Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Responses
The Saudi-led coalition announced the interception of six ballistic missiles launched by Iranian-backed Houthis. These attacks targeted Taif province and the Red Sea area near Yanbu. Tim Water, a senior analyst at KCM Trade, noted that ongoing hostilities remind markets that vital oil assets remain vulnerable to direct military threats.
Infrastructure Adjustments Amid Conflict
Saudi Arabia is increasing crude pumping volumes through its east-west pipeline toward its Red Sea export hub in Yanbu. However, tanker loading operations for crude exports have not yet resumed. This infrastructure adjustment aims to mitigate potential disruptions while maintaining export capabilities despite the volatile security environment.
This story was produced in the newsroom from the disclosed sources named above.
