The popular AI framework Virtuals Protocol will host an in-person meet-up in Hong Kong on Friday, January 17.

**April 9 (CCTV News) — Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi spoke with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan by phone on April 9.** Raisi emphasized Iran accepts Pakistan’s ceasefire proposal, despite the U.S. repeatedly violating past commitments and flouting international law. This move reflects Iran’s responsible, firm stance, he said, adding regional and global nations should seize this opportunity to pressure the aggressor and prevent a repeat of past mistakes. He stressed Iran’s position hinges on the other party’s genuine commitment to negotiation principles and fulfillment of its obligations. Raisi also condemned multiple ceasefire violations—including an attack on Iran’s Lavan and Sirri Islands on the morning of April 8—noting Iran will respond resolutely to any aggression. Additionally, Raisi stated Iran has put forward a 10-point plan framework to end the war, with a key provision being a ceasefire in Lebanon.

April 9: Iranian Foreign Minister says Iran-U.S. ceasefire terms are clear and explicit. The U.S. must choose between a ceasefire or continuing the war through Israel—both cannot happen at the same time. (Wall Street News)

April 9 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel has achieved "tremendous accomplishments" that once seemed impossible. He noted more goals remain to be reached, adding the country will either escalate or restart its fight to achieve those objectives. Netanyahu emphasized Israel is ready to return to battle at any time if needed.

On March 31, 2026, Nasdaq submitted a rule change that took immediate effect. The modification alters the listing requirements for the BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) and iShares Ethereum Trust ETF (ETHA), transitioning them from a specific standard to a generic listing standard. It also extends the original deadline from the first quarter of 2026 to the third quarter, giving sponsor BlackRock additional time to complete the conversion.

April 9 Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement saying it will respond in a way that makes “aggressors in this region regret” if Israel does not immediately halt its attacks on Lebanon. The statement accused Israel of brutally massacring innocent Lebanese people—including children and women—in Beirut shortly after a ceasefire agreement was reached. Mousavi, commander of the IRGC’s Aerospace Force, also stated that attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon is equivalent to attacking Iran. The IRGC is preparing to “deliver a heavy blow to the aggressors’ brutal crimes,” he added. (CCTV International News)

On April 9th, Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office announced that Benjamin Netanyahu will address the media tonight at 8:15 p.m. local time (1:15 a.m. Beijing time today). No Q&A is scheduled. (FX168)