Iranian oil tankers leave US blockade area ahead of peace talks
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- Iranian oil exports resume as tankers leave Hormuz blockade zone
- US-Iran peace talks set to begin Friday in Switzerland
- Oil prices fall amid expectations of reduced tensions
Iranian oil exports resumed Wednesday after the first tankers carrying crude exited the US blockade perimeter in the Strait of Hormuz, according to shipping monitors, as Washington and Tehran prepare to launch talks on a final peace agreement.
The negotiations are scheduled to begin Friday at Switzerland’s Burgenstock resort and are expected to focus on unresolved issues including Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief.
Shipping monitor TankerTrackers reported that at least two supertankers operated by Iran’s national tanker fleet departed carrying a combined 3.8 million barrels of crude oil. A third vessel was later reported to have exited the restricted zone.
The reported movement of oil shipments and expectations that maritime traffic through Hormuz will normalize weighed on energy markets, with global oil prices moving lower.
According to officials cited in multiple reports, negotiations following the signing ceremony are expected to continue during a 60-day period aimed at reaching decisions on Iran’s nuclear activities and the future of international sanctions.
Reports indicated the United States may allow Iran to resume oil and fuel exports immediately under the proposed framework, alongside broader relief measures affecting banking, transport and insurance sectors.
Uncertainty remains
Despite diplomatic progress, regional tensions remained visible. The 'Israeli' military announced operations in southern Lebanon, while Iranian military officials warned of retaliation. Lebanese state media reported strikes that killed four people.
US President Donald Trump said the agreement text could be released soon, describing it as a significant document.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed negotiations would move forward but stressed Tehran remained cautious due to previous failed agreements.
Analysts continue to warn that tensions involving Lebanon and Hezbollah could complicate efforts to secure a broader settlement.
