**[Uncertainty Over U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Prospects: Oil Prices Strengthen, Gold Under Pressure]** According to a report by Jinse Finance, on April 23, oil prices rose as Iran vowed not to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as long as the U.S. continues to blockade Iranian ports. Al Jazeera reported that around 8:30 a.m., both WTI and Brent crude oil prices surged briefly before quickly retreating. Due to uncertainty over whether the conflict will reignite, oil prices continued to fluctuate slightly. Later, Iran International TV reported that in the early hours of Thursday local time, multiple explosions were heard in eastern and western Tehran. Sources indicated that the sounds resembled the operation of air defense systems, but this information has not been confirmed by other media outlets. Walter, Chief Market Analyst at KCM Trade, stated: "Brent crude briefly returned to triple-digit prices, keeping inflation concerns at the forefront of market focus and putting gold on the defensive today." Walter further noted: "Investors are worried that this 'ceasefire plus blockade' status quo could persist for months, turning short-term price spikes into a long-term inflation anchor. From an asset yield perspective, this would be bearish for gold's performance." (Jin10)