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Carney Government Faces First Budget Confidence Test in Commons

                 Prime Minister Mark Carney's budget needs two opposition MPs to either support or abstain it to pass. The House of Commons is set to hold its first confidence vote tied to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s inaugural federal budget on Thursday evening. The vote will focus on a Conservative sub-amendment to a Bloc Québécois amendment, both of which challenge key elements of the government’s fiscal plan. The Liberal government has declared the votes to be matters of confidence , meaning defeat could trigger a federal election. While the stakes are high, the government is expected to survive this initial test thanks to support from the New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Bloc Québécois , who have both signaled they will vote against the Conservative motion. Interim NDP Leader Don Davies confirmed that his caucus of seven MPs will side with the Liberals, ensuring the defeat of the Conservative sub-amendment. However, Davies ...

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Israel Rejects Ceasefire Proposal Accepted by Hamas as Rafah Invasion Looms

 

In a tense turn of events, Hamas has announced its acceptance of an Egyptian-Qatari proposal for a ceasefire to halt the seven-month-long war with Israel in Gaza. However, Israel remains skeptical and has not yet confirmed its agreement to the deal. The situation remains precarious as both sides grapple with their demands and the potential consequences of further military action.

The Ceasefire Proposal

The proposed ceasefire aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict that has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. While Hamas has welcomed the proposal, Israel has rejected it, citing concerns about the safety of its citizens and the need for a comprehensive solution. The proposal includes provisions for a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and a cessation of hostilities.

Israel’s Stance

Israel maintains that it will continue military operations until Hamas is defeated and has expressed its intention to retain a security presence in Gaza3. The rejection of the ceasefire proposal underscores the deep-rooted tensions between the two parties and their differing visions for a peaceful resolution.

The Rafah Situation

Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, has become a focal point in the conflict. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have called for civilians in eastern Rafah to move toward an expanded humanitarian area, potentially signaling preparations for a ground invasion. However, President Joe Biden and other world leaders have repeatedly voiced opposition to such an invasion, warning of a spike in civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian crisis. The population in Rafah has swelled to an estimated 1.4 million people following Israel’s offensive in Gaza in retaliation for Hamas’ attack on Israel and the taking of hostages.

The Way Forward

As the situation remains fluid, international leaders continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to find a resolution. CIA Director William Burns is set to travel to Israel for further hostage and ceasefire talks after discussions in the Qatari capital, Doha. The stakes are high, and the world watches closely as both sides weigh their options.


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