Oil Extends Decline as US–Iran Deal Optimism Grows
  • Market Insights   >   Daily Market Analysis New

Oil Extends Decline as US–Iran Deal Optimism Grows 

Published: 26 May 2026,06:22

Published: 26 May 2026,06:22

Daily Market Analysis New

Share on:
FacebookLinkedInTwitterShare
Share on:
FacebookLinkedInTwitterShare

Key Takeaways:

*Oil prices continue falling as markets price in a potential US–Iran agreement

*Traders are unwinding geopolitical risk premium tied to Strait of Hormuz disruptions

*Lower crude prices are easing global inflation fears and reducing pressure on Treasury yields

Market Summary:

Crude oil prices remained under heavy pressure as markets continued aggressively unwinding the geopolitical risk premium built during the peak of the Middle East conflict. Optimism surrounding a potential U.S.–Iran agreement has become the dominant macro driver across global markets, with investors increasingly betting that an eventual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could normalize global energy flows after months of disruption. Recent comments from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting negotiations were “proceeding nicely,” combined with reports that regional diplomatic channels are actively working toward a ceasefire extension, further strengthened expectations that tensions may gradually de-escalate.

As a result, WTI crude experienced one of its sharpest recent declines, falling nearly 6–7% from previous highs and stabilizing near the $90–91 region, while Brent crude also retreated toward the $97–98 area after previously surging on supply fears. Traders are now increasingly removing the “war premium” that had previously pushed oil sharply higher amid concerns over tanker disruptions and supply bottlenecks in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes.

Additional pressure on oil prices emerged from broader macro expectations that easing energy costs could help reduce global inflationary pressures. Falling oil prices have contributed to lower Treasury yields and improving risk appetite across equities, particularly growth and technology sectors. At the same time, concerns surrounding demand destruction from prolonged high prices have also eased slightly as markets anticipate improved supply conditions if diplomatic progress continues.

However, despite the recent bearish momentum in crude, volatility remains extremely elevated. Mixed signals from Iran, continued military activity around certain regional facilities, and uncertainty regarding the durability of any potential agreement continue preventing markets from fully pricing in a lasting resolution. Analysts warn that any breakdown in negotiations, renewed attacks, or setbacks in ceasefire discussions could quickly trigger another sharp rebound in oil prices. Markets therefore remain highly headline-sensitive, with geopolitical developments currently overriding traditional supply-demand fundamentals.

Looking ahead, investors will continue monitoring the U.S.–Iran diplomatic updates, tanker flow conditions around Hormuz, upcoming U.S. inventory data, and broader macroeconomic releases such as Core PCE inflation and GDP revisions. If oil continues stabilizing lower, it could become a major tailwind for global equities and reduce pressure on central banks. However, another geopolitical escalation could rapidly revive stagflation fears and reintroduce volatility across all asset classes.

Technical Analysis 

Crude Oil, H4: 

Crude oil remains under pressure after extending its recent decline below the key 97.20 support region, with the price currently attempting to stabilize near the 90.88 level. Recent price action continues to reflect a broader bearish structure, as the market struggles to recover following a sequence of lower highs and persistent downside momentum over the past several sessions.

Momentum indicators are also continuing to favor the downside, although early signs of stabilization are beginning to emerge. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains below the midpoint level, suggesting that bearish momentum still dominates overall market sentiment despite the recent rebound attempt from support. Meanwhile, the MACD remains in negative territory, with both signal lines still trending lower, although the histogram appears to be gradually moderating, indicating that selling pressure may be starting to slow in the near term.

Despite the ongoing stabilization attempt, crude oil continues to face strong overhead resistance near the 97.20 region, which now acts as an important recovery barrier following the recent breakdown. As long as price remains below this level, the broader short-term outlook may continue to favor consolidation-to-bearish conditions, with downside risks toward the 90.90 and 84.40 support zones still remaining relevant.

Overall, crude oil appears to be entering a temporary stabilization phase after its recent selloff, although stronger bullish confirmation is still needed before a more meaningful recovery or broader trend reversal can be established.

Resistance Levels: 97.20, 104.75

Support Levels: 90.90, 84.40

Start trading with an edge today

Trade forex, indices, metal, and more at industry-low spreads and lightning-fast execution.

  • Start trading with deposits as low as $50 on our standard accounts.
  • Get access to 24/7 support.
  • Access hundreds of instruments, free educational tools, and some of the best promotions around.
Join Now

Latest Posts

Fast And Easy Account Opening

Create account
  • 1

    Register

    Sign up for a PU Prime Live Account with our hassle-free process.

  • 2

    Fund

    Effortlessly fund your account with a wide range of channels and accepted currencies.

  • 3

    Start Trading

    Access hundreds of instruments under market-leading trading conditions.

Please note the Website is intended for individuals residing in jurisdictions where accessing the Website is permitted by law.

Please note that PU Prime and its affiliated entities are neither established nor operating in your home jurisdiction.

By clicking the "Acknowledge" button, you confirm that you are entering this website solely based on your initiative and not as a result of any specific marketing outreach. You wish to obtain information from this website which is provided on reverse solicitation in accordance with the laws of your home jurisdiction.

Thank You for Your Acknowledgement!

Ten en cuenta que el sitio web está destinado a personas que residen en jurisdicciones donde el acceso al sitio web está permitido por la ley.

Ten en cuenta que PU Prime y sus entidades afiliadas no están establecidas ni operan en tu jurisdicción de origen.

Al hacer clic en el botón "Aceptar", confirmas que estás ingresando a este sitio web por tu propia iniciativa y no como resultado de ningún esfuerzo de marketing específico. Deseas obtener información de este sitio web que se proporciona mediante solicitud inversa de acuerdo con las leyes de tu jurisdicción de origen.

Thank You for Your Acknowledgement!