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Houthis Signal Readiness for Iran Conflict, Heightening Global Shipping Fears Article

Houthi activists burn US and Israeli flags during a demonstration in solidarity with Iran and Lebanon, in Sanaa, Yemen. Yemen’s Iran‑aligned Houthi movement has declared it is prepared to join the escalating conflict involving Iran, a move that could further destabilize global shipping routes and intensify economic pressures. A senior Houthi figure told Reuters the group is “fully militarily ready with all options,” noting that any decision to act would depend on developments in the wider regional war.  The Houthis, who previously disrupted Red Sea traffic during the Gaza conflict, may once again target the Bab al‑Mandab Strait—one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The narrow passage connects the Red Sea to the Suez Canal, and renewed attacks could deepen the global oil and trade crisis already triggered by the Middle East conflict. Analysts suggest the group may be waiting for a strategic moment to open a new front in coordination with Iran, especially as the ...

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Canada's Job Market Soars in December: 91,000 Jobs Added, Surpassing Expectations

 

Canada's economy experienced a remarkable surge in job growth in December 2024, adding an impressive 91,000 jobs, far exceeding economists' expectations of 25,000. This significant increase brought the unemployment rate down to 6.7% from 6.8% in November.

The job gains were primarily in full-time positions, with notable increases in educational services, health care and social assistance, finance, and transportation. The public sector saw the addition of 40,000 jobs, while the private sector added 27,000 jobs. Additionally, the number of self-employed individuals rose by 24,000, marking the first increase since February.

Despite the positive job growth, the average hourly wage rose by 3.8% year-over-year, a slight decline from previous months. Economists have noted that while the job market's performance was better than anticipated, there is still room for improvement, and further interest rate cuts may be necessary to reduce excess capacity in the economy.

Overall, the strong job market performance in December 2024 signals a positive end to the year and raises questions about the Bank of Canada's future interest rate decisions.



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