OTTAWA – A temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran was announced Thursday evening, according to a CBC News broadcast. The agreement, brokered through Pakistani intermediaries, comes approximately 90 minutes before a deadline set by the U.S. President demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the ceasefire, reports indicate continued fighting between Iran and Israel.

Rising Bacterial Infection Cases

A rare but potentially deadly bacterial infection, invasive meningococcal disease, is on the rise in Canada. CBC News data shows cases have reached their highest level in over a decade, with at least 155 infections reported nationwide in 2025. The majority of cases have been identified in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Health officials recommend vaccination, noting that vaccine coverage rates have recently declined. The death rate for invasive meningococcal disease can be as high as 14%, with infants and young adults being particularly vulnerable. In Manitoba, an outbreak is being driven by an unexpected strain, serogroup 2 type W, prompting a change in the routine vaccination program.

Alberta Separation Referendum Faces Legal Challenge

A Cree nation in Alberta is challenging the legality of a petition seeking a referendum on Alberta’s separation from Canada. The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation has filed for an injunction to halt the petition, arguing it violates their treaty rights. The First Nation contends that a referendum on separation cannot proceed without their consent, as treaties were originally signed with the British Crown and the responsibility to uphold them now rests with Canada. Lawyers for Stay Free Alberta, the group behind the petition, argue against the injunction, stating it would infringe on citizens’ rights to petition their government. Stay Free Alberta claims to have already collected over 178,000 signatures, the threshold required to trigger a vote, and Alberta’s Premier has indicated she will move forward with a province-wide referendum if the signatures are verified.

Other News

  • U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance is in Budapest supporting Viktor Orbán’s re-election campaign.
  • The UK has banned the rapper formerly known as Kanye West from entering the country due to previous anti-Semitic remarks.
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a multi-billion dollar infrastructure spending plan, with $300 million in federal funding allocated to a dozen projects across Canada. Critics suggest the plan may be insufficient and politically motivated, with projects concentrated in key ridings ahead of upcoming by-elections.
  • U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer anticipates negotiations for the Canada-United States-Mexico agreement will extend past the July 1st deadline, citing unresolved issues with Canada regarding steel and aluminum imports.