The Japanese Nikkei index plunged by more than 3%, and Asian stock markets fell across the board.

The Japan's benchmark Nikkei index fell 3.4% to 3,642.25 at one point; with growing concerns about a prolonged military conflict erupting in the Middle East, Asian stock markets plummeted across the board. The Nikkei 225 index fell 3.1% to 54,549.32.