OTTAWA – A two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran was announced during a CBC News broadcast Wednesday evening. The agreement, brokered by Pakistan, is contingent on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement came approximately 90 minutes before a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump, who had warned that “a whole civilization will die” if the deadline was missed, according to the broadcast. Following the announcement, oil prices fell by 15%.

However, the ceasefire is described as fragile. According to political analyst Janice Stein, speaking on CBC News, Iran continued to fire missiles at Israel after the ceasefire was announced, with Israel responding in kind. Stein stated there is “zero trust” between the U.S. and Iran.

Stein characterized the situation as a “huge strategic defeat” for the United States, asserting that Iran is now “functionally in control of the Strait of Hormuz.” She also noted that Iran’s foreign minister stated safe passage through the strait would require coordination with Iran’s armed forces, which she interpreted as a statement of military control.

Several sticking points remain, including disagreements over U.S. military bases in the Middle East, reparations for the war, and Iran’s right to uranium enrichment, according to Stein. She cautioned that the ceasefire is primarily a means to “buy everybody time to step back from the edge of the cliff.”

In a separate segment, CBC News reported on Canada’s infrastructure needs, with the federal government pledging billions of dollars for roads, pipes, transit, bridges, and buildings. The Conservatives criticized the announcement as a re-announcement of previously committed funds. Experts suggest the investment may be insufficient, with some estimating that ten times the amount is necessary.

Finally, the broadcast also featured a report on Canada’s labour shortage in the housing construction sector, highlighting programs aimed at training individuals facing hardship for skilled trades positions. Blue Door’s Construct program, for example, provides free eight-week training and paid work experience to individuals experiencing homelessness or other difficulties.