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Iran–U.S. Negotiations & Shipping Disruptions: What It Means for Your Wallet

  🔴 Breaking — This Morning President Trump posted on social media Saturday that a peace deal with Iran is "largely negotiated" and will be announced shortly. The Washington Post reports (May 25, 2026) that the U.S. and Iran are actively working toward a framework deal that would extend the ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices have already reacted — Brent crude fell more than 5% to around $98 a barrel on the news. After nearly three months of conflict, spiralling energy prices, and stalled talks, there is cautious optimism today that a diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran could be imminent. But what exactly is being negotiated — and what does it actually mean for Canadians and consumers at the gas pump, the grocery store, and beyond? Here is everything you need to know, updated with today's latest developments. $4.51 U.S. avg. gas price/gallon — up 51% since the war began -5.2% Brent crude drop today on deal optimism (to ~$98/barre...

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Alberta Halts Health Procurement Amid Controversy

                                           Alberta Premier Danielle Smith 


Alberta’s government has abruptly ended procurement negotiations with two companies linked to Edmonton businessman Sam Mraiche, a figure at the centre of a growing health care scandal. The firms were in talks to build private surgical facilities in Red Deer and Lethbridge, but the United Conservative government announced the termination following mounting criticism over transparency and potential conflicts of interest.

The decision comes after weeks of scrutiny over Mraiche’s involvement in provincial health contracts. Allegations of inflated prices, political pressure, and questionable procurement practices have fueled public concern, prompting Alberta’s auditor general to launch an investigation into the health authority’s contracting processes.

Premier Danielle Smith’s government has faced backlash for its dealings with Mraiche’s companies, especially given his limited background in the medical sector. Critics argue that the episode highlights deeper issues of oversight and accountability in Alberta’s health care system.

By halting these negotiations, the province aims to restore public trust, though opposition leaders continue to call for broader inquiries into alleged corruption and mismanagement. The controversy underscores the tension between Alberta’s push for expanded private surgical facilities and the need for rigorous safeguards in public procurement.

In summary: Alberta’s move to end talks with Mraiche-linked firms signals a retreat from controversial health care deals, but the scandal has already sparked wider investigations and political fallout.

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