Skip to main content

Featured

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...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

Australia Joins Global Shift by Recognizing Palestinian State

            Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gestures during a press conference in Sydney on Dec. 12, 2024. 



Australia to Recognize Palestinian State at UN Assembly

Australia has announced it will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, joining a growing list of Western nations pushing for a two-state solution amid escalating conflict in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the decision is intended to “contribute to international momentum towards a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages.” The recognition is contingent on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including governance reforms, demilitarization of Gaza, and the exclusion of Hamas from any future government.

A Strategic Diplomatic Shift

Albanese emphasized that “a two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East.” He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for undermining peace prospects through settlement expansion and opposition to Palestinian statehood.

Australia’s move follows similar announcements from France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others, signaling a coordinated effort among Western allies to pressure Israel toward a political resolution. Nearly 150 of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestinian statehood, though the United States remains opposed.

Conditions and Commitments

The Palestinian Authority has agreed to several reforms, including:

  • Holding democratic elections
  • Ending payments to families of prisoners and martyrs
  • Instituting education reforms
  • Accepting international oversight to prevent incitement of violence

Australia’s recognition aims to isolate Hamas, which it designates as a terrorist organization, and support moderate Palestinian leadership committed to peace.

Global Implications

This diplomatic shift leaves the U.S. increasingly isolated among its Five Eyes allies, as New Zealand also considers recognition. Albanese’s announcement reflects growing frustration with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and a desire to revive stalled peace efforts.


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment