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NATO Tensions Spike as Trump Blasts Allies Over Iran Conflict

The US president complained NATO countries did not want to join the fight against Iran, yet still complain about high oil prices. U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized NATO allies on Friday, accusing them of failing to support the U.S.-Israel military campaign against Iran and branding the alliance “cowards. Rising Friction Within the Alliance Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump argued that NATO partners were unwilling to contribute meaningfully to the conflict, despite benefiting from U.S. security guarantees. He declared on social media that “without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER,” warning that Washington would “remember” the lack of support.  Strategic Stakes The criticism comes as tensions escalate across the Middle East, with the U.S. and Israel engaged in active military operations against Iran. Trump has repeatedly urged NATO members to take a more assertive role, particularly in securing strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.  Broader Hum...

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Federal government unveils new dental insurance plan for low- and middle-income Canadians

 

The federal government has announced the details of its new dental insurance plan, which will offer dental benefits to low- and middle-income Canadians who do not have private insurance.

The plan, which was a condition of the Liberals’ supply-and-confidence deal with the NDP, will be phased in gradually over 2024, starting with seniors over the age of 87, then children under 18 and people with disabilities, and finally all eligible Canadians in 2025.

The program will cover preventive teeth cleanings, treatments and removable dentures, and will be administered by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. The government expects the plan to benefit about 9 million people and cost $13 billion over the first five years.

To qualify, applicants must be Canadian residents with a household income under $90,000 and no private insurance. The government will check the criteria against tax filings and require employers to report on dental coverage. People who do not file their income taxes will not have access to the program.

The government said the plan will complement existing federal and provincial dental health benefits, but it is still negotiating with individual provinces on which program will be the primary payer.

The Liberals said the plan is part of their commitment to build a more inclusive and fair society, and to address the oral health needs of millions of Canadians who cannot afford dental care.

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