White House optimistic about Iran deal as key Pakistani negotiator visits Tehran | CNN

Follow the latest updates on the war with Iran here. • Deal prospects: The Trump administration feels “good about prospects of a deal” with Iran, the White House said, noting that a potential second round of talks would likely be held in Pakistan. Iran’s foreign minister said Tehran remains committed to promoting peace after meeting Pakistan’s military chief — a key intermediary. • US blockade: Iran’s military has threatened shipping in the Red Sea if the US continues its blockade of Iranian ports. The US Central Command said the blockade had “completely halted” Tehran’s economic sea trade, while Iranian media reported four vessels had traveled to and from the country. • Israel-Lebanon talks: Israel’s security cabinet met to discuss a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, according to an Israeli source, as its military continued its bombardment targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah. Asian stocks rose on Thursday, tracking record highs in the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite, amid investor optimism about an extension of the ceasefire and a final deal with Iran. Japan’s benchmark index Nikkei 225 gained 1.58% shortly after the open, while South Korea’s Kospi climbed