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Markets Digest Iran Peace Progress and Fed Rate-Hike Risk — June 22, 2026

  Markets are easing into a cautious start this Monday as investors return from a long weekend — U.S. markets were closed Friday for Juneteenth — and assess a mixed backdrop: tentative optimism over U.S.–Iran peace talks, a newly hawkish Federal Reserve, and a key week of economic data and earnings ahead. Oil is steadying, the Canadian dollar is under modest pressure, and Asian markets rallied while European and U.S. futures drifted slightly lower in early trading. 🍁 Canada — TSX & the Loonie The S&P/TSX Composite Index heads into Monday trading with a cautious tone, sitting near the 34,857 level after slipping 0.32% on Thursday — the last day Canadian markets were open. Energy stocks will be in focus as oil prices stabilize following weeks of volatility tied to the U.S.–Iran conflict and the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Canadian dollar is trading at approximately 70.52 cents U.S. (CAD/USD: 0.7052), down about 0.22% on the session. The loonie remains und...

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Syria's Interim Leader Calls for Unity Amid Escalating Violence

 

In a heartfelt appeal for peace, Syria's interim leader, Ahmed Sharaa, addressed the nation following the deadliest outbreak of violence in over a decade. Speaking from a mosque in his childhood neighborhood of Mazzah, Damascus, Sharaa emphasized the importance of national unity and domestic peace. "We must preserve our unity and live together," he urged, acknowledging the challenges facing the country.

The recent clashes, which erupted in the coastal regions of Latakia and Tartous, have claimed over 1,000 lives, including civilians, security personnel, and fighters loyal to the ousted regime of Bashar al-Assad. The violence marks a grim chapter in Syria's ongoing struggle for stability after the fall of Assad's government in December.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the violence has spiraled into revenge killings and summary executions, with armed militias targeting Alawite communities accused of supporting the former regime. The interim government faces mounting pressure to address these sectarian tensions and restore order.

Sharaa's call for peace comes as a reminder of the resilience and unity needed to rebuild a nation torn apart by years of conflict. "Syria has the characteristics for survival," he reassured, urging citizens to rise above sectarian divides and work towards a peaceful future.


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