Explosion at Qatar Natural-Gas Plant Leaves -2-

0646 GMT - Gold prices fall as investors weigh the outlook for U.S.-Iran peace negotiations and U.S. monetary policy. In early trading, New York futures are down 0.7% to $4,218.20 a troy ounce. "For now, the yellow metal remains stuck in technical limbo," analysts at Saxo Bank say. Progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations, including efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz despite diplomatic challenges over Lebanon, eased concerns over energy supply disruptions and reduced fears of a broader inflation shock. However, hawkish remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh reinforced expectations that U.S. interest rates will remain elevated for longer, reducing the appeal of nonyielding assets. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index is up 0.1% to 100.93, making dollar-denominated commodities more expensive for overseas buyers. (giulia.petroni@wsj.com)

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