Brussels, March 23 (QNA) - European stock markets posted strong gains on Monday before paring back advances by the close, after comments from US President Donald Trump signaled a possible de-escalation in tensions with Iran.

The pan-European STOXX Europe 600 ended the session up 0.63%, reflecting broad-based optimism earlier in the day. Germany's DAX rose 0.96% to close at 22,595.25 points, while France's CAC 40 gained 0.79% to 7,726.20.

However, the UK's FTSE 100 bucked the trend, slipping 0.24% to finish at 9,894.15.

Markets had initially rallied on investor optimism, but sentiment shifted after President Trump indicated a potential easing of tensions with Iran. He also announced a five-day delay to planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, a move seen by analysts as opening the door to diplomatic efforts.

The mixed close highlights ongoing uncertainty among investors, as geopolitical developments continue to weigh on market confidence and outlooks across the region. (QNA)