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Oil prices fall after US-Iran ceasefire agreement

Naphtha

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The ceasefire between the US, Israel and Iran has been eagerly awaited by oil traders.

The vital shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's liquefied natural gas and crude oil flows, has reopened, and Iran confirmed safe passage through it on Wednesday.

Immediately after the two-week ceasefire was reached, oil prices fell sharply, by more than 13.5% to $94 per barrel for Brent crude, which is also the benchmark.

Production has slowed in major oil-producing states in the Middle East, and this may not resume quickly, so there will still be supply problems.

Before the US and Israel began the attacks, oil was around $72 a barrel. The average price last year was $69.

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Donald Trump

US and Iran agree to two-week ceasefire and opening of Strait of Hormuz