How can someone predict with such precision the developments in the negotiations for control of the Strait of Hormuz, which are causing sharp ups and downs in energy markets with oil supply disruptions, and reap huge profits?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suspicions of inside information point to the White House\u2026 already under investigation by the relevant authorities. Let\u2019s look at the facts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Large, well-coordinated transactions in global oil markets are once again attracting global attention, after investors placed a $760 million bet on a drop in crude prices minutes before a crucial announcement regarding the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) showed that on April 17 between 12:24 GMT and 12:25 GMT, traders sold a total of 7,990 Brent futures contracts, with trades valued at around $760 million at the time. The timing aligns with an Iranian announcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About 20 minutes later, at 12:45 GMT, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced via X that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open for the duration of the ceasefire period to all commercial vessels, alongside the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In accordance with the ceasefire in Lebanon, passage for all commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz is declared fully open for the remainder of the ceasefire, on the coordinated route as previously announced by the Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2014 Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 17, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n