middle east

Stocks in Amsterdam fell for a second day as tensions in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment, while oil prices continued to climb. Concerns over supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz added to market pressure. Meanwhile, merger talks in the drinks industry lifted shares in Paris.

Air France has prolonged flight suspensions to several destinations in the Middle East, including Tel Aviv, amid continuing security concerns. KLM has also extended cancellations, citing unsafe airspace and the ongoing conflict in the region.

The AEX index started the week lower, continuing Friday’s losses amid fresh tensions in the Middle East. Rising oil and gas prices weighed on markets, while airline stocks came under particular pressure. Flow Traders stood out as one of the few gainers, benefiting from market volatility.

The Dutch foreign ministry has outlined routes for citizens seeking to leave the West Bank amid ongoing uncertainty. Travellers are advised to leave via Jordan or, with restrictions, through Israel. Authorities warn of unpredictable security conditions and sudden disruptions.

The OECD says the war in the Middle East is creating major risks for global growth, though the full effects remain unclear. Rising energy prices could fuel inflation and pressure central banks to keep interest rates high. New forecasts from the ECB and the Federal Reserve may soon shed more light on the situation.

Tensions in the Middle East continued to influence financial markets on Friday. The AEX closed slightly higher as rising oil prices and takeover speculation around Besi trading. Meanwhile, companies warned that the conflict highlights Europe’s need for greater energy independence.

After an EU justice ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Justice Minister David van Weel warned the Netherlands is vigilant about likely Iranian cyberattacks that could target US and Israeli interests and possibly spread to other targets.

Dutch exporters are losing millions as conflict in the Middle East disrupts major shipping and flight corridors. Logistics experts warn that diverted cargo is causing a backlog at alternative ports, leaving containers stranded and driving up transport fees. Although everyday consumer goods remain stable for now, the crisis is severely impacting the delivery of vital medical supplies.