Oil prices fell on Thursday after Washington and Tehran agreed to hold talks in Oman on Friday, even as differences persist over the scope of the discussions.
U.S. crude oil was down 1.4% at $64.26 a barrel in Asia trading (8.50 p.m. ET Wednesday). Global benchmark Brent also fell 1.4% to $68.49 a barrel.
Iran is seeking to focus talks on its longstanding nuclear dispute with Western powers, while the United States wants the agenda to also cover Tehran’s ballistic missile program, its alleged backing of armed groups across the Middle East, and its domestic human rights record.
On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei “should be very worried,” sending oil about 3% higher.
Trump had warned last month that he could order strikes on Iran if Tehran fails to agree to a deal around its nuclear program. He had also threatened to intervene in support of protesters who have been raising voices against the Islamic Republic.
