Markets Show Mixed Reactions Ahead of US Deadline on Iran Deal

European and Asian markets opened slightly lower on Tuesday ahead of US President Donald Trump's deadline for Iran to accept a deal ensuring open access to the Strait of Hormuz or face air strikes on its energy infrastructure. The deadline is at 8 pm Eastern Time, or 2 am Central European Time.

Trump has described potential actions as targeting Iran's civilian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges.

5 per barrel, up about 1%. Brent crude, the international benchmark, stood at around $111 per barrel, also up 1%.

The Euro Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 both rose 0.

5%. 2%, and France's CAC 40 and Italy's FTSE MIB each gained nearly 1%. 3% lower on Tuesday morning. 5%. Monday's gains came after a report showed US employers hired more workers last month than expected.

The US economy has faced higher gasoline costs since the Iran war began in late February with US and Israeli attacks.

markets showed mixed responses.

3%. Australia's ASX 200 and Taiwan's Taiex both increased 2%. 95 per ounce. 12, according to AAA, up from below $3 just before the war started.

Sunday, Trump renewed the threat publicly.

“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!!”

The @business source framed the approaching deadline as a choice between deal or destruction, but provided no additional factual details beyond the briefing title.