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Markets Rebound as Hopes for Iran–U.S. Dialogue Ease Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. stock futures edged higher on Wednesday as signs of potential diplomatic movement in the Iran–U.S. standoff helped calm volatile markets. Futures tied to the S&P 500 rose about 0.3%, the Nasdaq 100 gained 0.5%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures added 0.2% after a turbulent prior session.  The shift in sentiment followed reports that Iran has quietly approached the United States to discuss terms for ending the escalating conflict , a development that helped cool fears of further disruption in global energy markets. This diplomatic signal contributed to a rebound after Tuesday’s sharp sell-off, when concerns over widening conflict and rising oil prices rattled investors.  The conflict, now in its fifth day, has seen continued strikes and mounting casualties, adding to market unease. Iran is preparing for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, killed in recent attacks, while regional tensions remain high.  Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Wednesda...

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Hamas Rejects Cease-Fire Proposal Amid Escalating Tensions

In a recent development, Hamas has firmly rejected the latest cease-fire proposal, accusing Israel of ignoring its core demands. These demands include an end to the ongoing war and a full withdrawal from Gaza. The statement came shortly after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and the release of all hostages held in Gaza.

The vote at the UN provoked a clash between Israel and the United States. Surprisingly, the US decided not to use its veto power, leading to further tensions. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a high-level delegation’s planned visit to Washington.

An independent expert working with the U.N.’s top human rights body has also raised concerns. The expert stated that there are “reasonable grounds” to believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, international aid officials report that the entire population of the Gaza Strip—2.3 million people—is suffering from food insecurity, with famine looming in the hard-hit north. The conflict has resulted in over 32,000 deaths and more than 74,000 wounded, with women and children making up two-thirds of the casualties. Additionally, Hamas is still believed to be holding around 100 Israelis hostage, along with the remains of 30 others.

As the situation remains tense, the U.N.'s demand for a cease-fire in Gaza has provoked the strongest clash between the U.S. and Israel since the war began. Israeli and U.S. defense chiefs are set to meet, and global support for Israel’s offensive is waning. All this unfolds against the backdrop of Jerusalem’s festive holiday of Purim, which is now overshadowed by the ongoing conflict.

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