OTTAWA – A temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran came into effect Thursday evening, brokered by Pakistani intermediaries, according to a CBC News broadcast. Reports of continued fighting between Iran and Israel emerged shortly after the agreement was announced.

Political analyst Janice Stein, speaking on CBC News, described the ceasefire as “very fragile” and based on a lack of trust between the U.S. and Iran. She stated that Iran wants guarantees it will not be attacked again, despite accepting the ceasefire, and has indicated it remains prepared for conflict.

Rising Food Costs Linked to Middle East Conflict

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is contributing to higher fuel prices in Canada, and experts warn this could soon translate to increased grocery costs. Nish Patel, reporting for CBC News from Toronto, stated that shoppers should prepare for price increases of 50 cents to a dollar per pound on items like produce, meat, and dairy.

Monther Zaid, owner of Food Fair in Winnipeg, explained that fuel surcharges from shippers and suppliers are being passed on to consumers. He noted a recent price increase on a two-pound bag of onions, rising from 75 cents to a dollar. Diesel prices have jumped 40 percent since the war began, impacting the entire food supply chain.

Experts suggest buying local, seasonal produce as the Canadian growing season begins could help mitigate the impact of rising food costs.

Meningococcal Disease Cases on the Rise

A rare but potentially deadly bacterial infection, invasive meningococcal disease, is increasing in Canada. Data compiled by CBC News shows cases are at their highest level in over a decade.

Lauren Pelley, reporting for CBC News, highlighted the case of an 11-year-old girl who contracted bacterial meningitis. While rare, the infection can lead to meningitis, sepsis, and organ failure. The majority of cases have been reported in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Health officials urge vaccination, noting that vaccine coverage rates have recently dropped.

Artemis II Mission Updates

NASA has released images captured by the Artemis II crew during their lunar fly-around, showcasing previously unseen parts of the moon’s surface and views of Earth. The astronauts are returning to Earth, with re-entry scheduled for Friday evening. NASA reports favourable weather conditions but is monitoring for rain, which could interfere with communications.

During the mission, the crew also established the first ship-to-ship communication with the International Space Station.

Alberta Separation Referendum Faces Legal Challenge

A Cree nation in Alberta is seeking an injunction to halt a petition advocating for a referendum on Alberta separating from Canada, arguing it violates treaty rights. The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation alleges the province and federal government are failing to uphold treaty obligations. The lawyer for Stay Free Alberta, the group behind the petition, disagreed, stating it is a democratic process.