Skip to main content

Featured

5 Things to Know Today: Inflation Data, a Tariff Countdown, and a Big Energy Deal

  August 17, 2026 Inflation data lands this morning, the clock on the U.S. tariff deadline is down to two days, and a long-running provincial energy dispute is about to be settled. Here's what's moving your money today. 1. Today's Inflation Report Could Set the Tone for September Statistics Canada releases July's Consumer Price Index this morning. Economists are expecting the annual rate to tick up to roughly 2.9%, from 2.8% in June, mainly because gasoline prices swung higher again in July after the Middle East conflict pushed oil prices back up. Core inflation measures, which the Bank of Canada watches most closely, aren't expected to move much. What it means for you: A hotter-than-expected print would make it less likely the Bank of Canada cuts rates at its September 2 meeting, which matters if you're renewing a variable-rate mortgage or carrying a line of credit. A softer number keeps a cut on the table. 2. The Tariff Deadline Is Two Days Away, and Talks Are...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

Drone Strike Hits Aid Ship Bound for Gaza, Raising Humanitarian Concerns


A vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza was struck by drones while navigating international waters off Malta early Friday, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the group organizing the shipment. The attack caused a fire onboard, which was later brought under control, but the ship remains at risk of sinking due to damage sustained in the strike.

The ship, named *Conscience*, was carrying 30 international human rights activists alongside aid supplies intended for Gaza. The coalition reported that the drone strike appeared to have specifically targeted the ship’s generator, leaving it without power and causing a breach in the hull. The vessel issued an SOS distress call, prompting Cyprus to dispatch a rescue vessel to assist.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions surrounding humanitarian aid access to Gaza, where the ongoing conflict has led to severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has long campaigned against Israel’s blockade of Gaza, with previous attempts to deliver aid by sea facing similar interventions.

Authorities have yet to confirm who was responsible for the drone attack, and there were no immediate reports of casualties. The Israeli military has not responded to requests for comment regarding the incident. 

The strike has intensified concerns over the safety of humanitarian missions attempting to reach Gaza, as aid groups warn that the humanitarian response in the region is on the verge of collapse. 


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment