European shares were on course for their first monthly decline in six months on Sept. 30 as inflation risks linked to the Middle East war pushed global bond yields higher and increased pressure on stocks. The pan-European STOXX 600 rose 0.7% to 642.69 points by 0722 GMT, but was set to end September down 1.5%, while the third quarter was nearly flat. Investors have been preparing for higher interest rates to contain inflation driven by surging energy prices, after global bond yields reached multi-decade highs. Oil prices edged higher after US President Donald Trump denied he would be willing to ease sanctions on Iran, while Qatar pushed for peace talks. Bond markets showed some relief as the 10-year German bund yield eased for a second consecutive day. Britain reported faster-than-previously-estimated economic growth in the second quarter, while France's September inflation exceeded expectations. Germany's inflation data was due later in the day and could provide further insight into the country's economic conditions. Mining shares gained, led by Boliden AB and Rio Tinto, while media stocks weighed on the market. Glencore rose 1.4% after receiving approval to continue operating its Hunter Valley thermal coal project in Australia until 2045.