European equities closed unevenly Tuesday, reacting to a mix of robust mining profits, softer-than-expected UK labor figures, and escalating geopolitical risks in the Middle East. BHP Group reported a stronger-than-expected half-year profit, driven by surging copper prices that finally outpaced iron ore for the first time. Antofagasta delivered record 2025 earnings, fueled by a 30% revenue jump from higher copper and by-product prices. Meanwhile, Enagas returned to profit in Spain, aided by asset sales and arbitration gains.

However, UK unemployment rose to 5.2% in December, the highest since early 2021, while wage growth slowed to 4.2%, pressuring the Bank of England to potentially cut rates faster. Oil futures slipped 0.7% to $68.15 amid concerns over potential supply disruptions from Iran during critical nuclear talks.