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Talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington, D.C. ended after two hours.

America said both sides agreed to hold direct talks at a later date. Israel's ambassador

to America said the countries were, quote, united in liberating Lebanon from Hizbola, and Iran-backed

militia. Meanwhile, fighting continued on the ground. Israel said its troops had encircled the southern

Lebanese town of Bintishbil, while Hezbollah fired rockets into northern Israel.

Donald Trump told the New York Post that a new round of talks between America and Iran

could take place over the next two days. Pakistan is

reportedly pushing to host another round this week. Meanwhile, the Pentagon said that no ships

had passed its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and that six merchant vessels had turned back

to Iranian ports on its instruction.

Investors cheered signs of more American Iran talks.

The SMP 500 rose around 1%, nearing its previous peak in late January, while the Nasdaq 100 gained

1.6% and was on track for its longest winning streak since 2021.

Oil prices fell sharply.

Brent crude was down more than 4% as hopes of diplomacy, eased fears of supply disruptions.

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