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Lebanese PM Urges Caution Amid Rising Regional Tensions

                                                       Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has issued a firm warning against pulling the country into what he described as “adventures” that could endanger national security and unity. His remarks come at a moment of heightened regional volatility following coordinated strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran.  Salam emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging all Lebanese factions to act with “wisdom and patriotism” and to prioritize the interests of the nation above external pressures or political agendas. Though he did not name Hezbollah directly, his message was widely interpreted as a caution to the Iran‑backed group, which has historically been involved in conflicts with Israel and has signaled it may not remain neutra...

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Inflation Climb Reinforces Fed’s Cautious Stance as Powell Returns to Capitol

 

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is back on Capitol Hill amid new data showing that inflation in the United States jumped to a 3% annual rate in January—slightly higher than December’s 2.9%. The uptick, driven by rising costs in housing, food, and energy, is prompting concerns that the progress on curbing inflation may be stalling.

In his second day of testimony before Congress, Powell reiterated that the Fed is in no rush to lower interest rates. He emphasized that while the overall economy remains robust, the unexpected surge in consumer prices underscores the need for a “wait-and-see” approach. Lawmakers grilled him on various issues ranging from tariff policies to the safety of bank deposits, but Powell maintained that the current monetary policy framework is appropriate given the mixed economic signals.

Market observers noted that the higher-than-expected inflation data might further delay any future rate cuts, as the Fed continues to weigh the risks of reducing policy restraint too quickly. With Powell’s testimony ongoing, all eyes remain on Capitol Hill as policymakers and investors seek clarity on the future direction of U.S. monetary policy.


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