U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the United States and Iran could reach an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for “freedom of movement” for shipping within days. Multiple outlets report Bessent made the comments in a Tuesday interview, suggesting a potential timeline ranging from as early as Tuesday to “today or tomorrow,” with other reporting placing the likelihood of a deal by Tuesday or Wednesday or midweek. The comments are framed as ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran, with Bessent expressing optimism that a breakthrough could come soon.
Market reactions described across sources include a drop in oil prices following the remarks. Financial Times and other outlets cite declines in Brent crude, while Forbes reports oil prices fall and stocks rise after the comments. One outlet also notes that Iran publicly denies direct U.S.-Iran talks were taking place, even as Bessent describes negotiations progressing.
Overall, the reporting centers on Bessent’s public assessment of a near-term path to reopening the key oil shipping chokepoint and the immediate market response to that prospect.
