Iran and the United States have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, just two hours before the deadline set by President Donald Trump. The truce includes a temporary reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Both sides plan to hold negotiations in Pakistan later this week. Leaders across Europe, the Gulf, and Asia have welcomed the move, but questions remain about whether the ceasefire will hold and what issues will dominate the upcoming talks.

Analysts share insights on the latest developments in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, including the U.S. president's ultimatum, Pakistan's proposed two-phase ceasefire framework, and the strategic risks of targeting civilian infrastructure.

The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty was signed 16 years ago in April between the U.S. and Russia. It expired this February, with no sign of extension after Washington failed to respond to Russia's proposal to uphold the treaty informally while maintaining its core nuclear limits. Meanwhile, the broader Non-Proliferation Treaty faces potential strain as Iran considers withdrawing amid Israeli and U.S. actions. What do these developments indicate about fundamental shifts in global security? Is there hope as world leaders gather in New York later this month for the NPT Review Conference?

Analysts share insights on the outlook for the Middle East conflict and possible solutions to end the crisis. They also discuss the global repercussions of tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran could be hit “extremely hard over the next two to three weeks” in his first prime-time address since the outbreak of conflict. A professor from Columbia University assesses the impact of the president's remarks on the American public and global markets, as well as the prospects for a resolution to the hostilities.

Media reports say an Iranian parliamentary commission has approved plans to collect tolls on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened that the United States will “completely” obliterate Iran's oil wells and Kharg Island if the strait is not “immediately” reopened and a peace deal is not reached “soon.” Analysts are sharing insights into the possibility of long-term structural oil repricing, as well as contingency measures to prevent a broader energy crisis.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan has attracted many tech-savvy companies to focus on China as an innovation hub. Senior business executives share their insights on why China is a leading center of innovation.

At a time of global uncertainty, China's economic fundamentals continue to demonstrate resilience, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing anchor for the world economy. Analysts share perspectives on issues such as China's role in global innovation and the strategic importance of clean energy.

Participants at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference are seeking answers to the same question: how to inject more certainty into an uncertain world? The conference organized a high level dialogue on the same topic, bringing state leaders, heads of international organizations and scholars from Asia.

Innovation is the key, especially in China where consumers are captivated by cutting edge technology and truly intelligent electronic vehicles. That's the view of Ola Kallenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes Benz group. He underscored the company's resolve to move forward with courage and boldness and competing and cooperating with Chinese partners while embracing the opportunities of China's 15th five year plan.