First Thing: China trip winds down but Trump-Xi Iran accord remains elusive | Jem Bartholomew

During his China visit, Trump praised Xi Jinping, stating that the US and China share similar views on ending the Iran war, though details remain unclear. China called for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, while the US indicated it wouldn't rely on China's leverage. Analysts suggest Russia's intensified attacks point to a preference for escalation over negotiation.