Asia-Pacific markets navigate geopolitical uncertainty as fragile Iran-U.S. ceasefire remains under strain. South Korea's Kospi rose 1.40% and Japan's Nikkei 225 gained 1.84%, while Australia's ASX 200 fell slightly. The Middle East conflict has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy corridor, keeping oil prices volatile. West Texas Intermediate crude climbed 1.72% to $99.55 per barrel as tensions persist over passage fees. President Trump warned Iran to halt alleged charges on oil tankers, while Iran's parliament accused the U.S. of ceasefire violations. China's factory-gate prices rose for the first time in over three years, signaling potential economic recovery. Japan plans to release strategic oil reserves starting May. Despite geopolitical headwinds, Wall Street closed higher with the S&P 500 gaining 0.62% and Nasdaq rising 0.
