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The Gas Tax Holiday Ends in 24 Days — Here's the Real Math on What You'll Save

  Published August 14, 2026 Ottawa's fuel excise tax suspension shuts off September 7. Here's what it's actually been worth at the pump, what changes the next morning, and who should plan a fill-up before Labour Day. The Countdown The federal fuel excise tax returns to full rate on September 8, 2026 — that's 24 days from today. Prices reset to their pre-April 20 rate the moment the clock hits midnight. If you've noticed gas feeling a little less painful since spring, that wasn't your imagination. On April 20, 2026, Ottawa suspended the federal fuel excise tax — 10 cents a litre off gasoline, 4 cents off diesel — as Middle East oil-supply disruptions pushed pump prices toward $2 a litre in some cities. The suspension, passed as part of Bill C-30, has been running for nearly four months. It ends September 7, inclusive. On September 8, the tax comes right back. What the holiday actually saved you The headline number — 10 cents a litre on gas — undersells it sligh...

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Israel Signals Shift Away from Ceasefire Talks Amid Gaza Crisis

 

Israel Explores Alternatives as Ceasefire Negotiations Stall

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Friday that his government, in coordination with the United States, is considering "alternative options" to ceasefire talks with Hamas, following the withdrawal of both nations' negotiating teams from Qatar.

The move marks a significant shift in the diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate. Netanyahu echoed U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff's assessment that Hamas showed a "lack of desire" to reach a truce, calling the group "the obstacle to a hostage release deal".

What Are the Alternatives?

While neither Netanyahu nor Witkoff elaborated on what these alternatives might entail, the rhetoric suggests a hardening stance. President Donald Trump added that Israel may need to "finish the job," implying a potential escalation of military operations.

Ceasefire Proposal Details

The proposed deal under discussion included:

  • A 60-day ceasefire
  • Release of 10 living hostages and 18 remains by Hamas
  • Exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel
  • Increased humanitarian aid to Gaza
  • Continued negotiations for a permanent agreement

However, talks have been bogged down by key disagreements:

  • Hamas demands a full Israeli withdrawal and end to the war
  • Israel insists Hamas must disarm and relinquish power
  • Hamas has refused to surrender its weapons, though it has expressed willingness to leave power

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The situation in Gaza remains dire:

  • Over 120 deaths linked to malnutrition
  • Aid groups report severe food shortages, even among their own staff
  • Israeli strikes continue, with dozens killed in recent days

Next Steps?

Despite the withdrawal, Hamas claims negotiations may resume next week, suggesting the recall of delegations was a pressure tactic. Yet, Israel has not confirmed any plans to return to the table.

As international pressure mounts and humanitarian conditions worsen, the future of peace in Gaza remains uncertain.

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