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  Thursday, July 9, 2026  Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...

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Gaza Ceasefire Talks: A Fragile Hope Amidst Ongoing Conflict


As the world watches with bated breath, the Cairo-mediated discussions persist, yet the prospect of a ceasefire in Gaza remains tenuous. The crux of the matter lies in the uncompromising demands of both parties involved. Hamas insists on a war termination as a prerequisite for releasing hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands firm against such conditions.

Stalemate in Cairo Negotiations in Cairo have hit a deadlock, with Hamas negotiators unwavering in their stance and Israeli officials absent from the indirect talks. Netanyahu’s recent statements underscore Israel’s primary objective: to permanently disarm Hamas, citing the group’s continued control as a threat to Israel’s future security.

The Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds The ongoing conflict has wreaked havoc on the Gaza Strip, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. The staggering death toll and the destruction of infrastructure paint a grim picture of the situation on the ground. As the talks proceed, Israeli military actions persist, adding to the already profound civilian suffering.

Mediation Efforts and International Concern The international community, including the CIA Director William Burns, has shown concern over the escalating casualties and the plight of Gaza’s inhabitants. Despite the challenges, mediators from Egypt and Qatar remain hopeful that their efforts will eventually lead to a cessation of hostilities and a resolution that addresses the core issues at hand.

In conclusion, the Cairo talks represent a critical juncture in the quest for peace in Gaza. The outcome of these negotiations could either pave the way for a much-needed truce or plunge the region further into the abyss of war. The world awaits a resolution that can bring an end to the suffering and set the stage for lasting peace.

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