Asian equity markets opened lower on Monday, with major indices across the region posting declines as investors digested a turbulent weekend in the Persian Gulf.

The sell-off marks a continuation of the risk-off mood that has gripped the region, following a broad retreat in mainland China and Japan during the previous trading session.

9% to close at 71,712 points, ending an eight-session winning streak that had previously propelled the benchmark to new highs.

The weakness in Asia comes after mainland China and Hong Kong equity markets retreated on Tuesday, tracking a broader downturn across Asian bourses.

The Shanghai Composite index declined 0.4%, while the more volatile CSI 300 benchmark suffered a sharper drop.

In Japan, the Nikkei 225 shed 0.9% to close at 71,712 points, ending an eight-session winning streak that had previously propelled the benchmark to new highs.

The current pullback is being driven by renewed geopolitical anxiety surrounding the Persian Gulf.