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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...

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Hezbollah Confirms Seventh Senior Commander Killed in Recent Israeli Strikes

 

In a series of escalating confrontations, Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its seventh senior commander, Nabil Kaouk, in recent Israeli airstrikes. Kaouk, who served as the deputy head of Hezbollah’s Central Council, was killed on Saturday, marking a significant blow to the Lebanese militant group.

Kaouk’s death follows a string of targeted strikes by Israel that have claimed the lives of several high-ranking Hezbollah officials, including founding members who had long evaded capture or assassination. These strikes have intensified over the past week, with Hezbollah confirming the deaths of multiple senior leaders.

The Israeli military has stated that these operations are part of a broader campaign to dismantle Hezbollah’s leadership and operational capabilities. The recent airstrikes have also resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, with over 1,000 people reported dead and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes.

Hezbollah, in response, has continued to launch rockets and missiles into northern Israel, although most have been intercepted or have landed in uninhabited areas. The conflict has brought the region to the brink of a wider war, raising concerns about a potential escalation into a full-scale regional conflict.

Kaouk, a veteran member of Hezbollah since the 1980s, played a crucial role in the group’s military operations, particularly during the 2006 war with Israel. His death is seen as a significant loss for Hezbollah, which has vowed to continue its resistance against Israeli aggression.

The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides showing no signs of backing down. The international community continues to call for restraint and a return to negotiations to prevent further loss of life and instability in the region.


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