Iran rejects Friday talks, oil prices surge

Iran has stated it has no plans to attend diplomatic negotiations with the United States this Friday, causing US oil prices to surge above $93 per barrel. This rejection comes despite President Donald Trump's repeated public statements that talks with Iran were possible on Friday. The Iranian position appears to be hardening as the deadline approaches, with the IRGC previously blocking an Iranian negotiating team from engaging in talks. The market reaction reflects growing concerns about the stability of Middle East energy supplies amid the ongoing tensions.