Market headlines for OilOil prices pared recent gains as US crude inventories unexpectedly increased by 1.96 million barrels, according to the API, contrary to forecasts of a decline.
Investors are cautious ahead of the Fed's interest rate decision, with growing speculations of a 50 basis point cut that could boost economic activity and oil demand.
Rising tensions in the Middle East are raising concerns over potential supply disruptions that could support oil prices in the near term. However, the gains could be limited as weakness persists in China, one of the world's largest oil importers.