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. Reports from Beirut describe a hospital receiving bodies and injured victims following Israeli attacks, with one resident, Abdurrahman Mohamed, stating he lost five family members.

Israel stated it is targeting Iran-aligned Hezbollah militants, but attacks have reportedly flattened residential neighbourhoods. More than 300 people have been killed and over 1,000 injured, prompting international calls for Lebanon to be included in the ceasefire. Israel’s army has invaded southern Lebanon, displacing over a million people. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for talks with the Lebanese government next week to discuss disarming Hezbollah, a first-time initiative.

Iran and the Strait of Hormuz

According to the CBC News broadcast, Iran is exerting control over traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, reducing traffic by approximately 90% since the start of the conflict. While traffic has reportedly increased slightly, Iran is now 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 potentially mined former route.

Canadian Political Developments

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is defending his decision to welcome former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladue into the Liberal caucus, despite past positions that appear to conflict with Liberal Party values. Gladue stated she will vote with the government and support the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals. A former pollster for Trudeau suggested the move is aimed at securing a majority government, but carries risks.

Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is facing questions about his leadership after the loss of four MPs, including Gladue. Poilievre blamed Prime Minister Trudeau for the defections. CBC News reported that the Liberal party is in talks with nine additional MPs about potentially crossing the floor. Conservative sources indicate morale within the party is low, though Poilievre maintains strong support from the party base.

Artemis II Mission and Other News

The four Artemis II astronauts are preparing for their return to Earth on Saturday. NASA teams are preparing for a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, a man who orchestrated the largest gold heist in Canadian history has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison, and a class-action lawsuit has been filed against a Quebec maple syrup producer alleging the sale of an impure product.