Dow hits record high as hopes rise for Iran diplomatic talks

Wall Street closed higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average notching a fresh record close. The rally was fueled by reports suggesting a possible resumption of diplomatic talks related to the ongoing tensions involving Iran, which eased investor concerns about further escalation in the Middle East. Reduced geopolitical risk typically supports risk appetite and inflows into equities. Other major US benchmarks also advanced alongside the Dow. Analysts note that markets remain highly sensitive to Middle East headlines, and any signs of renewed escalation could quickly reverse the current positive momentum.