FTSE 100 Climbs Modestly as Iran Tensions Ease

On May 22, 2026 the FTSE 100 closed 0.17% higher, recovering from the prior session’s 0.36% decline to 10,395 amid signs of further de-escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions. The index has swung sharply throughout May, falling more than 1% after the May 18 drone attack near the UAE nuclear plant and Brent’s surge above $110, then rebounding on Trump’s decision to pause strikes and fresh mediation efforts. April CPI cooling to 2.8% and a brief mining rally offered intermittent support, yet persistent high global yields and weak UK PMI prints have kept sentiment cautious despite the latest positive diplomatic signals.