TORONTO – A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran is in effect, according to a CBC News broadcast Wednesday evening. The agreement, brokered by Pakistani intermediaries, arrived approximately 90 minutes before a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump stated the ceasefire would allow time to reach a deal to end the conflict. According to the broadcast, the agreement is contingent on the “complete, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz.”

Escalation Preceding the Ceasefire

Prior to the ceasefire, fighting continued with Iran firing missiles at Israel and across the Gulf region. Israel reportedly targeted railroad tracks within Iran, and a synagogue in Tehran was destroyed. The U.S. also targeted military sites on Karg Island, a key location for Iranian oil exports.

Trump’s Rhetoric and Reactions

President Trump faced criticism for a social media post made hours before the deadline, stating, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again.” Katie Simpson, reporting for CBC News from Washington, noted this rhetoric raised questions about Trump’s judgment. Simpson also reported that even some right-wing influencers have called for Trump’s removal from office.

According to CBC News, the Pope also condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure, stating it was a sign of “the hatred, the division, the destruction the human being is capable of.”

Upcoming Negotiations

Formal peace talks are expected to begin Friday in Islamabad, Pakistan, with all parties invited to participate. Pakistan hopes the negotiations will lead to long-term stability, CBC News reported.

Sasha Petrusik, reporting from Jerusalem for CBC News, stated that despite the ceasefire announcement, explosions and interceptions continued throughout the night. She also noted skepticism regarding the ceasefire’s longevity, particularly concerning the situation in Lebanon and Hezbollah’s involvement.