Oil markets were steady as a cold spell in Europe and supply concerns from the Middle East temporarily diverted attention from Europe’s debt crisis.

Brent fell 16 cents to $115.77 a barrel, while US crude slipped 17 cents to $96.74.

The US Government further tightened sanctions against Iran, while increased violence in Syria added to concerns over the stability in the Middle East.

However, Greece’s resistance over a bailout fund helped cap gains, reports Reuters.