The Nikkei 225 Index rose 0.7% to around 54,100, while the broader Topix Index climbed 1.2% to 3,700 on Thursday, extending their rebound from the previous session amid optimism that the Middle East conflict may be nearing its end. Focus will be on President Trump’s address later today, with expectations the US could scale back military action against Iran. Trump signaled that a ceasefire could be considered “when the Strait of Hormuz is open, free, and clear,” adding that US forces may withdraw within two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Iran threatened retaliatory attacks on major US tech firms, warning they could be targeted if tensions with the US escalate further. Elsewhere, tariff concerns resurfaced as the Trump administration prepared a 25% levy on finished goods containing imported steel and aluminum. Among individual stocks, notable gains were seen from Toyota (+1.5%), SoftBank Group (+1.4%), Hitachi (+2%), and Mitsubishi (+2.1%).