Middle East Tensions and BoE Decision Keep London Stocks Under Pressure

London stocks experienced a downturn on Thursday, with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East weighing heavily on investor confidence ahead of a crucial monetary policy decision by the Bank of England.

The FTSE 100 dropped by 0.3%, remaining close to its intraday peak, while U.S. markets stayed closed for a public holiday. Ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran heightened uncertainty, with U.S. President Donald Trump keeping global markets on edge as he deliberated on potential U.S. involvement in operations with Israel against Tehran.

The tension has consequentially driven oil prices higher, aiding the energy sector's 1.2% rise, led by giants Shell and BP, which cushioned the FTSE 100. Elsewhere, personal goods and automobile stocks declined significantly, and midcaps saw a 0.7% fall, reflecting a broader market caution amid mixed signals from central banks in major economies.

(With inputs from agencies.)