CRUDE WRAP: WTI (U6) SETTLES USD 1.68 HIGHER AT USD 84.91/BBL; BRENT (U6) SETTLES USD 1.79 HIGHER AT USD 91.01/BBL

The crude complex saw strength, again, on Tuesday as US/Iran tensions continue to escalate with no signs of abating. While benchmarks edged higher for the duration of the US session, they did see a bout of pressure in the EU morning as reports suggested that Pakistan is trying to push for a resumption of negotiations between Iran and the US. However, that was short lived with the crude complex once again reversing as Yemeni Houthis warned shipping firms to avoid loading or discharging at Saudi ports.Meanwhile, i24news reported that it was Iran that proposed the 10-day ceasefire, while the US is said to be demanding a longer ceasefire and demanding even partial navigation of the Strait of Hormuz; Some members of the Trump administration call the Iranian proposal "absurd, illogical.". Later, Trump said that they are not finished at all with Iran, and will hit the Pickaxe Mountain area very soon, and very heavily. As such, overall sentiment remains negative as attacks continue between the nations, and in the region, with focus on any further escalatory acts. Also, weekly private inventory data is due after-hours.