Asian stock markets edged higher, with the MSCI Asia Pacific equity gauge rising 0.4%, marking its first weekly gain since February. Oil prices climbed about 1% to just under $97 per barrel amid cautious investor sentiment influenced by a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East. US President Donald Trump has threatened Iran over fees for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route that remains effectively closed. The dollar strengthened against all Group-of-10 currencies, while technology shares rallied following CoreWeave Inc.'s substantial $21 billion deal with Meta Platforms Inc. Despite the positive momentum in Asian markets, US equity-index futures dipped 0.2% due to ongoing tensions, including Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Analysts emphasize that market stability hinges on the ceasefire's durability and the smooth flow of oil through the Strait. Additionally, Netanyahu has agreed to discussions with Lebanon focused on disarming Hezbollah, with Trump advocating for reduced military actions to facilitate negotiations with Iran.