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Rising Tensions: Reports Hint at Possible U.S. Move Toward Iran

In this frame grab from footage circulating on social media from Iran, protesters once again take to the streets of Tehran despite an intensifying crackdown as the Islamic Republic remains cut off from the rest of the world in Tehran, Iran, January 10, 2026. Regional tensions have intensified as Israeli officials place the country on heightened alert amid growing speculation that the United States may be preparing to take action involving Iran. The shift comes at a moment when Iran is facing widespread domestic unrest, with demonstrations erupting across major cities and drawing international attention. Washington has issued increasingly sharp warnings to Iran’s leadership about the use of force against protesters, emphasizing that the U.S. is monitoring the situation closely. While American officials have not confirmed any operational plans, the possibility of U.S. involvement is being taken seriously by regional governments. The heightened alert follows a period of volatility mark...

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Ottawa to Remove Federal Exceptions from Canadian Free Trade Agreement

 

In a significant move to bolster interprovincial trade, the Canadian government has announced the removal of more than half of its federal exceptions from the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). This decision, spearheaded by Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand, aims to reduce internal trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation across provinces.

The CFTA, established in 2017, was designed to modernize the Agreement on Internal Trade and facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and labor within Canada. However, numerous exceptions have hindered its effectiveness. The federal government initially had 56 exceptions, but with the recent removal of 20 more, the total now stands at 19.

The majority of the removed exceptions pertain to government procurement, providing Canadian businesses with greater opportunities to compete nationwide. This action is expected to lower prices, boost productivity, and add up to $200 billion to the domestic economy.

Minister Anand emphasized the importance of mutual recognition of rules across provinces to streamline labor mobility and reduce regulatory burdens. The federal government is encouraging provinces and territories to follow suit and eliminate their own trade barriers.

This announcement comes at a critical time, as Canada faces potential trade disruptions from the United States. By strengthening internal trade, Canada aims to become less reliant on its southern neighbor and build a more resilient domestic economy.

The Committee on Internal Trade will review the federal changes and continue working with provinces to improve internal trade. More announcements are expected in the coming weeks as Canada strives to create a more open and efficient domestic market.



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