The Nikkei share average ended flat at 53,429.56 on Tuesday, reflecting a 0.03% increase in a volatile trading session. Investors are grappling with mixed sentiments as optimism for a potential ceasefire in the Middle East clashes with concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to escalate military actions against Iran. Japan's heavy reliance on the Middle East for approximately 90% of its oil makes the economy particularly sensitive to disruptions in the region. The broader Topix index also faced challenges, closing 0.3% higher at 3,654.02. Market strategist Hitoshi Asaoka noted that the credibility of Trump's statements is waning among investors, who are less reactive to his timelines. On the Nikkei index, 142 stocks advanced while 81 declined. Notably, software testing company SHIFT gained 4.3%, while truckmaker Archion fell 7.2%, marking the largest decline of the day.