On April 17, Jin10 reported that despite ongoing concerns about disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply from the Middle East, European natural gas prices are expected to decline by over 4% this week. According to analysts at ANZ Bank, the region faces competition with Asia for LNG cargoes, as increased imports are necessary to replenish depleted gas inventories. Forecasts of falling temperatures in Northwestern Europe are temporarily supporting fuel demand and slowing inventory accumulation. In early trading, the Dutch TTF benchmark futures contract fell by 1.6%, reaching 41.74 euros per megawatt-hour. Optimism surrounding U.S.-Iran negotiations and a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has eased concerns over prolonged conflicts.