Saturday, June 20, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily

The temporary ceasefire agreement reached between the U.S. and Iran is meant to end the war, reopen vital shipping lanes in the Gulf, and address Iran’s nuclear ambitions – at a later time. It includes big economic incentives for Tehran and comes up short on President Donald Trump’s stated goals for starting the war in the first place. Also: today’s stories, including our columnist’s thoughts on how President Trump and President Putin are handling their respective wars; how one woman in Missouri is preserving Black history along Route 66; and an essay from our staff photographer on how persistence, humanity, and instant connection create lasting joy during a recent trip to Côte d’Ivoire. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.