As far as I can tell the minimize/maximize issue has been fixed. At least I have not had any problems with it. If you’re on 2304.6 than you have run 46 turns and the hang up is caused by the AI. Since the last patch (1.13) the structure of combat has changed and now there is a retreat system. One AI retreats and the other AI will pursue it causing SE5 to run yet another combat round. Also combat has become effectively endless. For more on that read this thread:
Slow AI turns (1.13)
Point is your not alone we are all having this problem and I am sure Aaron will have it fixed in the next patch. Which I hope he expedites!