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Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...

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Escalation in Gaza: Hospital Targeted Amid Intensified Strikes

On Palm Sunday, a day of religious significance for Christians worldwide, Israel intensified its military operations across Gaza, targeting key locations, including a hospital in the northern part of the territory. The Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital in Gaza City was struck early Sunday morning, following evacuation warnings issued by the Israeli army. Tragically, a young patient lost her life during the evacuation due to the inability of medical staff to provide urgent care.

The hospital, operated by the Diocese of Jerusalem, condemned the attack, highlighting its occurrence on Palm Sunday, the start of Holy Week. Israel claimed the hospital was being used as a command center by Hamas militants to plan attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers, though evidence supporting this claim has not been provided.

In addition to the hospital strike, other attacks in Gaza resulted in significant casualties. A strike on a car in Deir al-Balah killed seven individuals, including six brothers and their friend, while another strike in Khan Younis claimed three lives. The escalating violence underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, with Gaza's health ministry reporting over 50,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began.

The situation remains dire, with calls for international intervention and accountability growing louder. As the conflict continues, the toll on civilians and the region's infrastructure deepens, raising urgent questions about the path to peace.

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