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Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

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Trump Reaffirms Tariff Threats Against Canada at Davos

In a virtual address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs against Canada. Trump emphasized that the United States does not need Canadian imports of oil, gas, vehicles, or lumber, and criticized Canada's trade policies as unfair.

Trump's comments come just days after his inauguration for a second term, marking his first international speech since returning to the White House. He characterized the trade relationship between the two nations as adversarial and blamed Canada's import policies for the U.S.'s trade deficit.

During his speech, Trump highlighted his administration's protectionist plans, including tariffs, deregulation, and tax cuts, aimed at reducing inflation and boosting the U.S. economy. He also mentioned that the U.S. would demand respect from other nations and would not tolerate trade deficits.

Canadian political leaders have expressed concern over Trump's remarks, with some advocating for diplomacy and others preparing for potential retaliation. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who recently met with Trump, emphasized the importance of cross-border trade within the oil and gas sectors.

Trump's speech has triggered widespread criticism and debate among political leaders and economists, who warn that tariffs on Canadian energy exports could drive up gasoline prices for Americans and threaten Trump's plans for "energy dominance".


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