European natural gas prices hover around €88/MWh, approaching the highest level since late 2022.

(1) European natural gas prices remain near their highest levels since the end of 2022, with inventory levels relatively low and ongoing supply reductions from the Middle East increasing regional risk exposure as winter approaches. (2) The benchmark futures have risen for two consecutive days, hovering around €88 per megawatt-hour. (3) According to Iran, regarding this key waterway (the Strait of Hormuz), it has no choice but to maintain control, but passage safety can be ensured for friendly countries.