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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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Turkey Blocks Instagram Access Over Hamas Chief Post Removal

 

In a significant move, Turkey’s communications authority has blocked access to Instagram, reportedly in response to the platform’s removal of posts related to Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh. The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA) announced the block on Friday, though no official reason was provided.

According to local media, the block came after Instagram removed posts by Turkish users expressing condolences for Haniyeh, who was recently killed. This action follows criticism from Fahrettin Altun, the presidential communications director, who condemned Instagram for censoring messages of sympathy for Haniyeh.

Turkey, which does not classify Hamas as a terrorist organization, has a history of censoring social media platforms. The country is observing a day of mourning for Haniyeh, with flags flown at half-staff. This incident highlights ongoing tensions between Turkey and social media companies over content regulation and freedom of expression.


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