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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 Issues Ultimatum to Hamas Over Gaza Hostages

In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric, former President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. Trump took to his Truth Social platform to deliver the ultimatum, stating, "Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you".

The warning comes amid unprecedented direct talks between U.S. officials and Hamas, a significant departure from the longstanding U.S. policy of avoiding direct engagement with the group, which is designated as a terrorist organization by Washington. The discussions, led by U.S. hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, aim to secure the release of American hostages still held in Gaza.

Trump's message also included a broader threat to the people of Gaza, stating, "A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!". This ultimatum follows a recent ceasefire agreement and the release of some hostages, but tensions remain high as the situation continues to evolve.

The former president's aggressive stance has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his firm approach while others express concern over the potential for further escalation. As the world watches closely, the outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain.



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