International News 14 April 2026
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Gold Prices Fall as Escalating U.S.–Iran Tensions Weigh on Rate Cut Hopes
Gold prices declined on Monday (April 13, 2026) as renewed concerns over a broader Middle East conflict resurfaced. The tensions, triggered by the failure of U.S.–Iran negotiations, pushed oil prices higher, stoking inflation fears and dampening expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts this year. Citing Reuters, spot gold fell 0.8% to US$4,711.51 per ounce at 12:06 GMT, after hitting its lowest level since April 7 earlier in the session. Meanwhile, U.S. gold futures for June delivery dropped 1.1% to US$4,732.80. The U.S. military announced it would begin a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas on Monday, following unsuccessful weekend talks aimed at ending the conflict.
Oil Prices Surpass US$100 as U.S. Prepares to Blockade the Strait of Hormuz
Global oil prices surged sharply past US$100 per barrel on Monday (April 13), following reports that the United States Navy is planning to blockade shipping routes to and from Iran through the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes after negotiations between Washington and Tehran failed to reach an agreement to end the ongoing conflict. The policy could restrict Iran’s oil exports and heighten concerns over global energy supplies. Brent crude futures rose by US$6.67, or approximately 7.0%, to US$101.87 per barrel at 06:30 GMT, after previously closing lower. Meanwhile, U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude jumped US$7.26, or 7.5%, to US$103.83 per barrel.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/harga-minyak-tembus-us100-as-siap-blokade-selat-hormuz
Saudi Oil Exports to China Plunge to Record Low Amid U.S.–Iran Conflict
Saudi Arabia’s crude oil sales to China are projected to plunge to a record low in May. The decline is attributed to the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, which has driven up oil prices and disrupted shipping routes, according to sources familiar with the matter. State-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco is expected to ship approximately 20 million barrels of crude to Chinese customers in May, equivalent to about 645,161 barrels per day. This figure is significantly lower than the roughly 45 million barrels delivered in January and February, based on data from Kpler and Reuters. Major Chinese refiners, including Sinopec and Rongsheng Petrochemical, have reportedly slashed their May orders. Sources indicated that Sinopec reduced its purchase volumes as it is still scheduled to receive some cargoes originally planned for April.