Rubio Calls US‑Iran Strait Deal 'Pretty Solid' as Oil Prices Slide and Lebanon Toll Rises

Diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran have intensified over the past week, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. At the same time, Israeli‑Hezbollah clashes in Lebanon have continued despite a nominal ceasefire, driving up casualties. Oil markets reacted quickly to the prospect of a deal, pushing prices lower.

Rubio told reporters in New Delhi that the agreement on the Strait of Hormuz is “pretty solid” and enjoys strong support from Gulf states. Brent crude futures dropped 4.5% to $98.83 per barrel, marking the lowest level in two weeks. Lebanon’s health ministry said the war’s death toll since March 2 has risen to 3,123 people, including two killed in Israeli raids on Sunday.

The combination of a potentially stable oil route and falling prices could ease energy cost pressures for importers, while the rising toll in Lebanon underscores the human cost of ongoing hostilities. Observers will watch whether the US‑Iran deal is finalized and whether it leads to a broader de‑escalation in Lebanon.