📝 Executive Summary
WTI crude oil trades near $85.60 per barrel as markets react to signs of de-escalation between the US and Iran. Despite an intraday rebound, the commodity remains down nearly 20% from its late-October peak as Middle Eastern oil shipments return to prewar levels. Analysts warn that while diplomatic optimism weighs on prices, ongoing naval blockade concerns and Iranian demands for sanctions relief maintain a level of uncertainty.