Asian equity markets mostly retreated on Thursday as stalled US–Iran peace negotiations undermined risk appetite. Market sentiment remained fragile amid persistent tensions in the Middle East and ongoing disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, which remains effectively closed, with Tehran maintaining control of the strategic waterway and having seized two vessels. A US blockade of Iranian ports also remains in force, supporting elevated energy prices and keeping inflation risks in focus. At the same time, President Donald Trump said the current truce would stay in place indefinitely while Washington awaits a new peace proposal from Iran. Regionally, performance was broadly weaker, with equities in Australia, Japan, China, and Hong Kong declining. By contrast, South Korean stocks rose to fresh record highs, buoyed by a strong rally in technology names.