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U.S.–Iran Strikes Escalate: What It Means for Your Gas Bill and Savings

  ⚡ BREAKING · MAY 8, 2026 By MoneySavings.ca Editorial Team   |  May 8, 2026  |  5 min read The Strait of Hormuz, photographed from space. Approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow waterway. (Image: NASA / Public Domain) American warships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on May 7, 2026 — and the U.S. military fired back hard, striking Iranian ports at Qeshm and Bandar Abbas. For Canadians, this isn't just a distant war story. It's a pocketbook issue. 20% of global oil transits the Strait of Hormuz every day $94 projected WTI crude price per barrel if closure continues (CEPR, 2026) 5% of normal shipping traffic still moving through the Strait What Happened — and When The crisis didn't begin overnight. On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting nuclear infrastructure and senior military leadership — including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the strik...

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USAID Layoffs Amid Myanmar Earthquake Response Spark Controversy

In the aftermath of Myanmar's devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which has claimed over 3,300 lives, three U.S. aid workers from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) were unexpectedly laid off while actively participating in rescue and recovery efforts. The terminations, announced during their mission, have raised concerns about the impact of recent cuts to USAID under the Trump administration.

Marcia Wong, a former senior USAID official, expressed dismay at the timing of the layoffs, describing them as demoralizing for workers striving to deliver humanitarian aid. The administration's decision to reduce USAID staff and funding has hindered the agency's ability to respond effectively to international disasters, while other nations, including China and Russia, have stepped in with substantial assistance.

The U.S. government has pledged $9 million in aid to Myanmar, but critics argue that the dismantling of USAID has compromised the coordination and delivery of relief efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration's response, citing challenges posed by Myanmar's military government.

The layoffs highlight broader concerns about the future of U.S. humanitarian aid and its role in global disaster response. As Myanmar continues to grapple with the aftermath of the earthquake, the international community is stepping up efforts to provide relief and support.

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