HALIFAX – A recently announced ceasefire is being challenged by ongoing conflict in Lebanon, CBC News reported Friday.

Lebanon Conflict and Humanitarian Concerns

Continued Israeli military action is hindering the ceasefire's progress. Oxfam policy lead in Lebanon, Marwan Issa, stated that eight bridges have been destroyed by Israeli attacks, isolating approximately 150,000 people in southern Lebanon. He emphasized the urgent need for an end to hostilities and access for humanitarian aid.

Across Lebanon on Thursday, bodies arrived at a Beirut hospital as victims were treated following Israeli attacks. Abdurrahman Mohamed, who lost five family members, stated his entire family was killed. Israel claims it is targeting Iran-aligned Hezbollah militants, but attacks have flattened residential neighbourhoods in Beirut, resulting in over 300 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries. Israel’s army has invaded southern Lebanon, displacing over a million people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to meet with the Lebanese government next week for direct talks to discuss disarming Hezbollah, which would be a first. Lebanon’s government has already officially banned Hezbollah’s military activities, but disarming the group has proven difficult.

Iran and the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has threatened to take “management of the Strait of Hormuz to a new level,” according to a letter purportedly written by the Ayatollah and read on state TV. The strait was supposed to reopen as part of the ceasefire, with Iran claiming ships can use the route if they coordinate with authorities. However, fewer than a dozen ships passed through in the first days of the temporary deal, and reports suggest Iran is charging tolls.

U.S. President Donald Trump responded on social media, calling Iran’s actions “dishonorable” and not in line with the agreement. He threatened further action if Iran does not meet his demands, stating on Truth Social that “the shooting starts bigger and better and stronger than anyone has ever seen before.” NATO members are preparing to respond to potential pressure on the global energy supply.

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped by approximately 90% since the war began, with Iran routing ships closer to its coast and limiting transits to a maximum of 15 per day. The country’s Revolutionary Guards published a map indicating a new route, suggesting the old route may be mined.

Canadian Political Developments

Canada’s Prime Minister is defending his decision to welcome former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladue into the Liberal caucus, despite her past positions on issues such as conversion therapy and abortion. Gladue stated she will vote with the government and protect the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Former pollster for Justin Trudeau suggested the move is an attempt to secure a majority government, but carries risks.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre blamed Prime Minister Trudeau for the floor-crossing of Gladue and suggested more MPs may follow. He stated he has no need to reflect on his leadership, citing the support of over 8.3 million Canadians who voted Conservative. Several Conservative sources indicated low morale within the party.

Artemis II Mission

The four Artemis II astronauts are preparing for their return to Earth tomorrow. Re-entry into the atmosphere is a complex process, with the crew reviewing procedures and preparing for a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. NASA teams and the Navy are preparing for the landing, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Eastern time.

Gold Heist Sentencing

The man behind the largest gold heist in Canadian history has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison. Arsalan Chowdhury pleaded guilty to plotting the theft of over $22 million in gold and cash from Toronto’s Pearson Airport in 2023. The stolen gold remains unaccounted for.