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Israel Intensifies Strikes on Hezbollah Strongholds in Southern Lebanon

People and members of the Lebanese army gather at a damaged site in the aftermath of Israeli strikes in Abbasiyyeh, Tyre district, southern Lebanon Israel carried out heavy airstrikes on southern Lebanon , claiming it was targeting Hezbollah positions that were allegedly being rebuilt despite a ceasefire agreement reached last year. The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for three areas before launching the strikes, warning civilians to leave as it accused Hezbollah of attempting to restore its military infrastructure. According to Lebanese officials, smoke was seen rising from the Nabatieh district following the bombardment, while the health ministry confirmed at least one fatality from earlier strikes the same day. The full toll from the latest wave of attacks has not yet been released. The escalation comes amid growing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. Despite the truce brokered in late 2024 , Israel has continued to conduct operations against Hezbollah, citing s...
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Understanding the New GST Cuts: What’s Included and What’s Not

 

The Canadian government has announced a temporary Goods and Services Tax (GST) break to help ease the financial burden on Canadians during the holiday season. This initiative, effective from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025, aims to provide significant relief by removing the GST/HST on a variety of essential items.

What’s Included in the GST Cuts?

The GST cuts will apply to a broad range of goods, making many everyday purchases more affordable. Here are the key items included:

  1. Groceries: While basic groceries are already GST-free, the new cuts extend to additional food and beverage items, including:

    • Alcoholic beverages (excluding spirits but including wine, beer, ciders, and spirit coolers up to 7% ABV) .
    • Restaurant meals and snacks .

  2. Children’s Essentials:

    • Clothing and footwear designed for children, including baby bibs, bunting blankets, and receiving blankets .
    • Diapers and children’s toys .

  3. Holiday Essentials:

    • Gifts, books, print newspapers, puzzles, and Christmas trees .

What’s Not Included?

Despite the extensive list of items covered, some goods remain subject to GST/HST. These include:

  • Luxury Items: High-end electronics, jewelry, and other luxury goods.
  • Non-Essential Services: Services such as spa treatments, gym memberships, and entertainment tickets.
  • Certain Alcoholic Beverages: Spirits and high-alcohol content beverages are excluded from the tax break .

This temporary GST relief is expected to save Canadians an estimated $1.6 billion over the two-month period, providing much-needed financial relief during a time of year when expenses typically rise .

By understanding what’s included and what’s not, Canadians can better plan their holiday spending and take full advantage of the savings offered by this initiative.


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