Washington: European stock indices closed lower across the board today, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East that worried investors and prompted them to reduce their risk exposure. The European Stoxx 600 index fell by about 1.76%, while the German DAX index recorded a larger decline of 2.35%, the British FTSE index fell by 1.66%, and the French CAC index fell by 2.18%.

According to Qatar News Agency, the downturn in stock markets was largely driven by investor concerns over the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, which has led to increased market volatility and a move away from riskier assets. The situation has created uncertainty among investors, who are closely monitoring developments in the region.