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Asian Equities Climb on Iran Diplomacy Hopes Despite Military Tensions

South Korean shares reached record levels Tuesday as markets resumed trading following a public holiday, buoyed by optimism surrounding potential breakthroughs in Iran negotiations. The Kospi climbed to 8,094.90 in early trading, while the Kosdaq gained 2.18 percent. Japan's Nikkei 225 pulled back after crossing 65,000 for the first time on Monday during thin holiday trading. Hong Kong's Hang Seng futures traded at 25,430, below the index's previous close of 25,606. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated Monday that talks with Iran were progressing favorably, though military operations continued in the region. The U.S. Central Command conducted strikes targeting Iranian missile sites and mine-laying vessels. Oil markets showed mixed reactions. West Texas Intermediate July futures fell, while Brent crude July futures rose approximately 1 percent.