OTTAWA – A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has been agreed upon, according to a CBC News broadcast. The agreement, brokered by Pakistan, is dependent on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came approximately 90 minutes before a deadline set by former US President Donald Trump.

During the broadcast, Katie Simpson, reporting from Washington, stated that Trump had moved from threatening “to wipe out a civilization” to reaching a ceasefire deal. Iran is reportedly framing the agreement as a win for itself. Trump announced the deal on social media, stating he would suspend bombing and attacks on Iran for two weeks, contingent on the “complete immediate and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz.”

Fighting continued even after the ceasefire announcement, with Iran firing missiles at Israel and Israel targeting railroad tracks within Iran. A synagogue in Tehran was reportedly destroyed, and the U.S. targeted military sites on Karg Island.

Trump’s earlier social media threat – stating “a whole civilization will die tonight” – drew widespread condemnation, including from the Pope, who emphasized that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law. Even some right-wing influencers, including Candace Owens and Alex Jones, reportedly called for Trump’s removal from office.

Formal peace talks are expected to begin Friday in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Rising Meningitis Cases in Canada

CBC News also reported a rise in invasive meningococcal disease across Canada, reaching its highest level in over a decade. Data compiled by the network shows at least 155 cases countrywide in 2025, with the majority appearing in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. The death rate for the disease can be as high as 14 percent, with infants and young adults most at risk. Experts urge vaccination, noting that vaccine coverage has dropped in recent years.

Food Prices Expected to Increase

The conflict in the Middle East is also contributing to rising food prices in Canada. Nisha Patel, reporting for CBC News, stated that fuel surcharges are being added by shippers and suppliers, leading to increased costs for consumers, particularly for imported produce and some meat and dairy products. While oil prices fell 15 percent after the ceasefire announcement, experts warn that consumers will continue to pay a price until energy markets stabilize. Buying local, seasonal produce may offer some relief.

Artemis II Crew Shares Images from Lunar Flyby

NASA has released images taken by the Artemis II crew during their lunar flyby, capturing previously unseen parts of the moon’s surface and views of Earth. The crew also conducted the first ship-to-ship communication with the International Space Station. They are scheduled to return to Earth on Friday evening.