PSX remained under intense selling pressure for the second consecutive trading session as growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continued to unsettle investors. The benchmark KSE-100 Index dropped sharply by 6,150.38 points, or 3.42 percent, reaching 173,776.66 during Tuesday’s trading after closing at 179,927.04 in the previous session.

The prolonged market decline reflected weakening investor confidence as uncertainty surrounding regional developments encouraged traders to reduce exposure to risk. Selling activity remained widespread across several sectors, extending the heavy losses recorded a day earlier and placing additional pressure on the country’s equity market.

Meanwhile, global financial markets reacted to rising concerns after the United States reinstated its naval blockade of Iran, escalating military tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest developments increased fears of possible disruptions to global energy supplies and added fresh uncertainty to international markets.

As geopolitical risks intensified, international oil prices continued to climb, raising concerns about higher energy costs and inflationary pressures worldwide. Brent crude rose to $84.80 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate reached $79.84 per barrel, with both benchmarks recording their highest levels in nearly four weeks.

Market analysts believe continued geopolitical uncertainty may keep investors cautious in the coming days, especially if tensions in the Middle East remain elevated. The combination of rising oil prices and global market volatility is expected to influence investor sentiment and trading activity at the Pakistan Stock Exchange.