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U.S. Threatens Harsher Economic Pressure on Iran as Mediators Rush to Secure Second Ceasefire Talks

  A woman walks past a digital screen displaying news of US-Iran peace talks along a road in Islamabad on April 10, 2026 The United States has warned it will step up economic pressure on Iran while mediators race to arrange a second round of ceasefire talks before the fragile truce expires on April 22, 2026 — a standoff that risks higher oil prices, tighter global markets, and direct costs for Canadian households and investors.   Background and diplomatic timeline A two‑week ceasefire that paused nearly seven weeks of fighting was brokered to create a narrow diplomatic window for talks between Washington and Tehran. The first round of face‑to‑face negotiations in Islamabad lasted more than 20 hours but ended without an agreement, leaving the truce set to expire on April 22, 2026 unless mediators secure a follow‑up session.  Mediators led by Pakistan, with active roles from Turkey, Egypt and other regional actors, have been shuttling between capitals to bridge the remaini...

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NDP and Bloc Québécois Push for Extended $250 Payouts to Retirees


The New Democratic Party (NDP) and Bloc Québécois are urging the Liberal government to extend the recently announced $250 payouts to include retirees. The payouts, part of a broader affordability package, are currently set to be distributed to working Canadians who earned $150,000 or less in 2023.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh expressed concern that the current plan excludes some of the most vulnerable Canadians, including seniors and people living with disabilities. Singh emphasized the need for the government to address this oversight and ensure that all Canadians, regardless of their employment status, receive the support they need.

Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet echoed these sentiments, stating that his party would not support the proposal unless it is expanded to include seniors and retired Canadians. Blanchet highlighted the importance of providing financial relief to those on fixed incomes, who are often disproportionately affected by rising living costs.

The Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has yet to respond to these calls for an expanded benefit. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland confirmed that the government is in discussions with other parties about the measures.

The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched, as it could significantly impact the financial well-being of many Canadians.



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