Financial markets reacted positively to President Donald Trump's statements suggesting a possible end to the conflict with Iran in 'two to three weeks.' Stock market indices surged and oil prices retreated, reversing the upward trend of recent weeks linked to Middle East tensions.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil is transported, is at the center of concerns. Its partial closure by Iran has caused crude oil prices to soar since the conflict began a month ago. Trump has conditioned any ceasefire on the reopening of the strait.
The Iranian attack on a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai on March 31 illustrates the fragility of the maritime situation. Dubai firefighters brought the fire under control without an oil spill. Emirates airline has banned Iranian nationals from entering and transiting through the United Arab Emirates.
Analysts remain cautious. While Trump's statements have temporarily lowered oil prices, the 15-point ceasefire plan proposed by the U.S. administration has not yet received an official response from Tehran. The continued deployment of American troops in the region suggests that the military situation remains fluid.
In France, rising fuel prices linked to the conflict are the subject of a government meeting this Wednesday with Sébastien Lecornu. Pump prices have significantly increased since the start of the conflict, impacting household purchasing power.
