Oil prices fell on Monday as the potential for escalated conflict between Israel and Iran diminished, leading to a reduction in the geopolitical risk premium that had briefly driven prices higher. Analysts noted that Iran’s muted response to Israel’s minor strike and reassurances against retaliation have cooled fears of immediate supply disruptions.
Additionally, a significant increase in U.S. crude inventories, which nearly doubled expectations, put further pressure on oil prices. The large stockpile build and a strong U.S. dollar, supported by a hawkish Federal Reserve stance, are contributing to bearish conditions in the crude market.