Gold prices rose on Tuesday on hopes of de-escalation in the Middle East conflict, but were poised for their worst month in more than 17 years as higher energy prices dimmed hopes for a US interest rate cut this year. Spot gold was up 1.5% at $4,578.89 per ounce, as of 0235 GMT. US gold futures for April delivery gained 1.2% to $4,611.30. The dollar eased, making greenback-denominated