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Canada’s Job Market Gains Momentum as Unemployment Drops to 6.5%

  I n October, Canada gained 66,600 jobs and the unemployment rate dropped 0.2 percentage points to 6.9 per cent.  Canada’s labour market showed renewed strength in November , with the unemployment rate falling to 6.5% as the economy added 53,000 jobs . This marks a positive shift after months of slower employment growth, suggesting resilience despite global economic uncertainties. Key Highlights: Unemployment Rate: Down to 6.5%, the lowest in several months. Job Creation: 53,000 new positions added, driven largely by full-time employment. Sector Growth: Gains were seen in professional services, healthcare, and construction, reflecting strong demand across diverse industries. Regional Trends: Ontario and British Columbia led the way in job creation, while some provinces experienced more modest growth. Economic Context: Analysts note that the increase in employment could ease concerns about consumer spending and economic slowdown. However, wage pressures and infla...

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Israel Accused of Using White Phosphorus on Residential Buildings in Lebanon

 

A global human rights group has accused Israel of using white phosphorus incendiary shells on residential buildings in at least five towns and villages in conflict-hit southern Lebanon. The report, published by Human Rights Watch (HRW), raises concerns about potential harm to civilians and violations of international law.

White phosphorus is a controversial substance that can set buildings on fire and burn human flesh down to the bone. Survivors face risks of infections and organ or respiratory failure, even from small burns. While Israel maintains that it uses white phosphorus only as a smokescreen and not to target civilians, the evidence suggests otherwise.

The HRW report includes interviews with residents in conflict-hit southern Lebanon and verifies images showing white phosphorus shells landing on residential buildings. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that at least 173 people have required medical care after exposure to white phosphorus.

This recent use of white phosphorus in Lebanon should prompt other countries to take action. HRW calls on the Lebanese government to allow the International Criminal Court to investigate and prosecute “grave international crimes” within Lebanon since October 2023.


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