Asian stocks today: Markets inch higher on US-Iran peace hopes; Nikkei jumps 2%, HSI adds 360 points

Asian stocks rose Thursday, mirroring Wall Street’s gains, on hopes of a US-Iran ceasefire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic talks are ongoing in Islamabad, with both sides exploring de-escalation, though Iran has warned of further disruptions if a naval blockade isn’t lifted.