A column of smoke rises after an attack in Tehran, Iran, Monday, March 2, 2026.
Mohsen Ganji | AP
LONDON – European stocks are expected to open firmly in negative territory on Tuesday as the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East continues to weigh on global market sentiment.
the united kingdom FTSE The index is expected to open 0.7% lower, Germany’s DAX down 1%, France CAC 40 drops 0.75% and that of Italy MIB FTSE 0.6% less, according to IG data.
Global markets continue to fall as the US-Iran conflict engulfs the entire Gulf region. Overnight, Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry said two drones attacked the US embassy in Riyadh.
A risk-off sentiment has gripped markets, with gold, considered a safe haven in times of uncertainty, rising. Global stocks remain under pressure, with US futures and Asian markets falling on Tuesday.
Global crude oil prices also rose on Monday on concerns that the conflict between the United States and Iran could disrupt oil infrastructure and drive up fuel prices, adding inflationary risks.
An Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander said the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most important transit route for crude oil, is closed and that Iran would set fire to ships attempting that route, Reuters reported, citing Iranian media.
The conflict now enters its fourth day on Tuesday without a clear end. On Monday, U.S. military leaders said more forces were heading to the region, and President Donald Trump said the war would last four to five weeks but could last “much longer.”
The European Union has called for a de-escalation of the situation and for “maximum restraint” and the protection of civilian life.
Looking at Tuesday’s data, gains come from Thales, Alcon, ASM International, Kuehne und Nagel International and Schaeffler. The data release includes the latest preliminary Eurozone inflation figures, which are expected to remain around 1.7% in February.
