#the canadian law forum

[block136]

Website: https://www.block136.org/

Address: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Block136 is a Canadian social networking platform with community-based integration, Marketplace, e-commerce, updated blogs and forums, exclusive groups, and general discussion board.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com//Block136

Twitter: https://twitter.com/block136_org

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[npzlawyersforimmigration]

Bridging Borders: A Small Business Guide to Sponsoring Green Cards

by David H. Nachman, Esq., Ludka Zimovcak, Esq., Snehal Batra, Esq. and Samantha Chasworth, Esq.

Introduction

Finding qualified employees is often a challenge for many small businesses, especially in highly specialized fields. One potential solution is to hire foreign workers looking for green card sponsorship. However, many small business owners are under the impression that they can't sponsor employees for a green card. In this blog post, we aim to debunk this misconception by explaining the process of sponsoring an employee for a green card.

Understanding the Sponsorship Process

The process of green card sponsorship is simpler than most people think. The first step involves obtaining certification from the Department of Labor that confirms your need to hire foreign employees. This begins by filing a prevailing wage determination with the Department of Labor, which specifies the prevailing wage for the role. This process can take a few months.

Following this, you begin the recruitment process. This involves advertising the role in various channels, including newspapers and online platforms, ensuring a fair recruitment process and preventing any potential unlawful activities. After the recruitment process concludes, you wait for 30 days and then file the online application, also known as the PERM labor certification.

Once approved, the Department of Labor issues a certification allowing you to proceed to the next step, the immigrant petition (Form I-140), within six months. This form collects information about your company, financials, the position, and the background of the employee.

Choosing the Right Category for Your Employee

The category under which you file the immigrant petition depends on your company's requirements for the position offered. For instance, requiring advanced degrees or considerable experience can be sponsored under the EB-2 category. Conversely, non-skilled, skilled positions and professionals can be sponsored under the EB-3 category.

The Importance of Proving the Ability to Pay Wages

An essential step for small businesses in this process is proving their capability to pay the proposed wages. This can be demonstrated through your tax returns, annual reports, audited financial statements, and U.S. federal corporate tax returns.

For H-1B employees, you can provide evidence that you are currently paying them. If you're not paying the salary for the green card, you must prove that you can cover the difference between their present salary and the future proposed salary.

Challenges for Sole Proprietors

Sole proprietors face additional challenges in this process. They need to present evidence of their lease and business expenses, along with profit and loss statements to verify the business's income.

Conclusion

Contrary to common belief, even small businesses like restaurants, construction companies, and real estate firms can successfully sponsor an employee's green card. Success hinges on understanding the labor certification process, demonstrating financial capacity, and collaborating with an experienced immigration attorney. By doing so, you can attract the right talent and contribute to the growth and prosperity of your small business.

http://www.visaserve.com

[eretzyisrael]

By JUDY SIEGEL-ITZKOVICH

The bestial crimes carried out by thousands of Hamas-led terrorists on October 7, 2023, were unspeakable – but the authors of a newly released 79-page report want the world to speak about them and spread the word.

Writing for the Civil Commission on October 7 Crimes by Hamas against Women and Children, they have even given it a name because at no time in history had this exact type of crime been committed. They called it “kinocide” – the targeting of families, calling it a new crime against humanity.

In preparation since February 2024, the report is authored by Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, Dr. Michal Gilad, and Dr. Ilya Rudyak from the civil commission. The Raoul Wallenberg Center for Human Rights (RWCHR), under the leadership of former Canadian justice minister Irwin Cotler, with whom Elyakim-Levy decided on the term “kinocide.”

The horrific assault in southern Israel resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the kidnapping of more than 250 people, including men, women, children, infants, the elderly, and disabled people, all in one day. The heinous acts of murder, torture, gender-based violence, and abduction spurred the immediate formation of the commission.

What is Kinocide?

By coining the term kinocide, the report exposes the deliberate, widespread exploitation and destruction of familial bonds to intensify victims’ suffering, highlighting the profound and lasting harm inflicted on individuals, communities, and societies. She noted that the Dvora Institute calls for urgent international recognition of the term as it describes a new, distinct international crime against humanity and presents legal and policy recommendations to close gaps in international criminal law, ensure accountability, and prevent such atrocities in the future.

GENOCIDE, AS practiced by the Nazis, is directed against a group of people – “national, ethnical, racial or religious,” according to the UN’s 1948 Genocide Convention – but kinocide is a specific type of assault against a group, using the relationship between family members and their emotional, identity, cultural, symbolic, material and other bonds, as a way to maximize the intended harm of the attack.

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Elkayam-Levy – a leading international law expert who teaches at Reichman University in Herzliya and who founded and chairs the commission – said that the world must know. This includes government and religious leaders, the UN, parliamentarians, legislators, and members of the Hague International Criminal Court, which has castigated and “tried” in absentia Israeli leaders and threatened them and IDF officers with imprisonment.

She has already presented the report to 300 very influential leaders at the Halifax International Security Forum, an annual summit for international government and military officials, academic experts, authors, and entrepreneurs, held in Nova Scotia, Canada.

The acts of terrorist inhumanity included cutting women in their homes, murdering them, forcing their children to watch or coercing parents to watch what was done to their children, and then sending photos and videos to all the contacts on the victims’ mobile phones. There were 17 minutes of video in which families were murdered at a balloon-and-blood-filled party for a daughter’s 18th birthday.

Elkayam-Levy said that the commission is assembling an archive of videos, texts, photos, and more – many produced by Hamas – to document these crimes, giving a voice to the victims and raising awareness of war crimes committed against women, children, and families. For this work, she was awarded the prestigious 2024 Israel Prize, Israel’s highest civilian honor in the field of Solidarity, topping many other prestigious awards she has received.

The archive, she declared, will serve as a vital resource for research, education, and advocacy, ensuring that the stories of those impacted are preserved, recognized, and remembered for generations to come. “We will bear witness! The murders weren’t random but carried out systematically to create the most vicious effects,” she said.

[darkmaga-returns]

The World Economic Forum has reportedly instructed world governments to dismantle age of consent laws while introducing something even more sinister: “Age of Death” laws.https://rumble.com/embed/v5vrmyb/?pub=13m19j

Under this new system, individuals will no longer have the right to live beyond a government-mandated age—let’s say 70 years old, for example—without first obtaining state approval. If you’re deemed unworthy by a death panel, it’s straight to the “suicide pod” for you.

This is not science fiction. This is the reality being planned behind closed doors. Stay tuned as we uncover the dark implications of this global agenda and what it means for your future.

Before we dive in, subscribe to the channel on Rumble if you haven’t already, and join the People’s Voice Locals community to support the channel and be part of our incredible community of truthseekers.

According to these chilling plans, the elite aim to make it illegal to grow old. Living past the age of 70 will be reserved for those with powerful connections or a unique trait that cannot be easily replaced.

The rest of us? We’ll be deemed useless, discarded, and sent to the proverbial glue factory.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has been instrumental in pushing the euthanasia agenda, first rolling it out in Canada, where the descent into barbarism should come as no surprise because the Canadian government has been completely penetrated by the WEF.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his deputy Chrystia Freeland are both WEF Young Global Leaders who have completely sold their soul to Klaus Schwab and his vision for the future.

In the UK, following the election of WEF member Keir Starmer, dystopian advertisements promoting euthanasia began appearing at train stations and tube stops in central London.

These disturbing ads, featuring attractive and youthful people celebrating their impending death, appeared just before a key parliamentary vote on whether to legalize euthanasia in the UK.

[britts-galaxy-brain]

I've been out of the Lily loop for a few years so I'm sorry if this is old news but 1. WHAT DO YOU MEAN "was caught searching for images on a real CP distribution forum"?! 2. if that's true, why is the only thing anyone complains about her make-believe writing and not her seeking out *CSEM of actual children? why is the focus on ponies when she's a danger to actual, existing human beings? and finally 3. WHY HAS NO ONE CALLED THE POLICE?!

(*I don't use 'porn' to refer to CSEM because that implies the child consented and kids cannot, in fact, consent to sex. Child sexual exploitative material = an accurate view of it. But you do you.)

Because the proof consists of a single forum post under the name EbaraTara asking for images that "look like (OP)'s younger sister".

I tried calling the Canadian cybertip line a couple of years ago when I found her e621 account full of content that's illegal in Canada, but they weren't interested in listening or letting me send them anything.

The evidence isn't straightforward enough to convince some people online ("Weeeell we don't know it was Lily, it could just be a troll using one of her known usernames"), let alone law enforcement. I know in my heart of hearts it's her. But unfortunately personal conviction doesn't count as legal evidence.

[antisemitism-us]

In the wake of the shooting of a Toronto Jewish school and the firebombing of a Montréal synagogue, the Canadian government announced on Friday that it would hold a forum to combat rising levels of antisemitism in the country.

The National Forum on Combating Antisemitism, according to Canada’s Justice Department, to be held in Ottawa in February, is set to bring together political, federal, provincial, and municipal bodies along with law enforcement and prosecutorial leaders to discuss short and long-term actions to address antisemitism in the country.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

The paperback edition of The Lost Cause, my nationally bestselling, hopeful solarpunk novel is out this week!

#20yrago GPL court challenge in English https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/old-docs/OIIFB_GPL2_20040903.pdf

#15yrsago How the UK gov’t spun 136 survey respondants into 7m infringers https://web.archive.org/web/20090906090950/http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/351331/how-uk-government-spun-136-people-into-7m-illegal-file-sharers

#15yrsago Canadian Copyright Consultation shows Canadians overwhelmingly support moderate, fair copyright https://web.archive.org/web/20090905160714/https://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/4355/125/

#15yrsago Special Pleading, the dirty rhetorical trick used to disqualify all open publishing successes https://web.archive.org/web/20090908002625/http://www.locusmag.com/Perspectives/2009/09/cory-doctorow-special-pleading.html

#15yrsago British musicians — Paul McCartney, Elton John et al — speak out against disconnecting accused infringers https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2009/sep/03/youtube-prs-deal-file-sharing

#15yrsago Damien Hirst installation owner charges teen art-rival with theft of £500,000 for removing box of pencils from installation https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/damien-hirst-in-vicious-feud-with-teenage-artist-over-a-box-of-pencils-1781463.html

#10yrsago California’s incipient dustbowl: photos of a drought https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2014/09/dramatic-photos-of-californias-historic-drought/100804/

#10yrsago W3C hosting a “Web We Want Magna Carta” drafting session at Internet Governance Forum https://www.w3.org/blog/2014/crowdsourcing-a-magna-carta-for-the-web-at-the-internet-governance-forum/

#10yrsago Net Neutrality video: don’t flush our rights away! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNM8Z1lm9bM

#10yrsago More than 99% of FCC commenters support Net Neutrality https://sunlightfoundation.com/2014/09/02/what-can-we-learn-from-800000-public-comments-on-the-fccs-net-neutrality-plan/

#10yrsago Canadian PM steals site of memorial for political rival’s father https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/ottawa-architect-says-government-stealing-site-for-communism-memorial

#5yrsago Why don’t more Chinese people oppose the Chinese government? https://web.archive.org/web/20190907072743/https://supchina.com/2019/07/22/why-do-chinese-people-like-their-government/

#5yrsago Critical essays (including mine) discuss Toronto’s plan to let Google build a surveillance-based “smart city” along its waterfront https://torontolife.com/city/a-smart-city-should-serve-its-users-not-mine-their-data/

#5yrsago Interview with Kim Kelly, Teen Vogue’s labor reporter https://therealnews.com/why-does-teen-vogue-need-a-labor-column

#5yrsago After unsuccessful legislative reform, German radicals defy the law to dumpster-dive at grocery stores https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/germany-examines-legality-of-dumpster-diving-a-1284079.html

#5yrsago Beijing promises “no mercy” for the “backstage masterminds” of the Hong Kong uprising https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3025578/beijing-calls-all-hong-kong-institutions-fight-violent

#5yrsago Dell Magazines have changed the Campbell Award to the Astounding Award, removing the name of fascist John W Campbell https://memex.craphound.com/2019/09/04/dell-magazines-have-changed-the-campbell-award-to-the-astounding-award-removing-the-name-of-fascist-john-w-campbell/

#5yrsago They told us DRM would give us more for less, but they lied https://locusmag.com/2019/09/cory-doctorow-drm-broke-its-promise/

#5yrsago Hong Kong protests level up in countermeasures, tactics, art and deadly seriousness https://memex.craphound.com/2019/09/04/hong-kong-protests-level-up-in-countermeasures-tactics-art-and-deadly-seriousness/

[cindylouwho-2]

RECENT ECOMMERCE NEWS (INCLUDING ETSY), Early April 2024

Welcome to my coverage of all the important Etsy and other ecommerce news that microbusinesses need to know! It's been a few weeks since my last update, so there is a fair amount to report.

Want to get the news more often and in a more timely fashion? Please sign up to support my Patreon site, where among other features, I will soon be starting periodical live chats on important topics. (I promise there will be one the day Etsy announces a fee increase)

TOP NEWS & ARTICLES 

Etsy has made changes to how processing times and estimated delivery dates work; I covered everything you need to know in this post. 

Etsy seems to be sending more Messages to the spam folder, so you may miss a real message. After reading that thread, I checked, and there was one from another seller needing help from just 5 hours ago. Etsy did say engineers are looking into it. 

UPS has won the USPS air cargo contract, currently held by FedEx. It kicks in at the end of September. “As of May 31, 2023, FedEx counted the USPS as the largest customer of its Express unit.” 

ETSY NEWS 

Etsy is rolling out a new seller pricing tool, and it is just as useless as the old version. I posted some early thoughts (with screenshots). 

Some shop owners are struggling to cancel Etsy coupons, while others are not having the same problem. Support says the company is aware of the issue. 

If you still can't access most of the Etsy forum after the changes on Tuesday March 26, post in this Technical Issues thread so that your account can be fixed.

Periodically, some shops suddenly stop getting deposits. If your shop has recently had a security warning, you may want to check to see if your bank account is still verified with Etsy. 

Looks like Etsy has an issue with misrepresenting how many items are left for each listing on the app; I wrote about it here.

Canadians getting harassed by Etsy to sign up for TurboTax should know that the company has told a seller that it doesn’t import Etsy data into your tax return for you; that is only available for Americans. [If you can’t import your info from your various platforms, my suggestion is use a free online program to file instead; I’ve used Wealthsimple for several years with no issues filing small business taxes; the T-2125 is part of the program.]

Etsy’s activist investor seems to think that the marketplace can “…add more buyers and increase the amount of money they spend on the platform”. But “monetization opportunities” were also mentioned. 

Etsy is yet again called out for allowing AI-generated porn on the site. “Several of the available listings also appear to violate existing trademarks — TheStreet identified listings that sell NSFW (not safe for work) AI-generated, suggestive images that appear to mimic Rapunzel from Disney's "Tangled," Princess Jasmine from Disney's "Aladdin" and She-Hulk from Marvel's "She-Hulk."

Etsy has been talking a lot about "image quality" lately, but doesn't really define the term anywhere. While I agree with those that say it is more than image size - Etsy would not have humans curating images to train its AI if "quality" could simply be measured by pixels - note that Google Shopping Ads describe image quality as size. “The resolution of your product images determines its quality. Google considers images with more than 1024 pixels as high-resolution images.” 

Apparently Etsy CEO Josh Silverman likes to make “unorthodox, downright risky career decisions” that often involve a ton of responsibility. [Link to podcast in article; I haven’t listened to it]

ECOMMERCE NEWS (minus social media)

General

Patreon’s live chats are now accessible on the web (instead of just the app). A creator can assign moderators, and have chats for different categories of members. 

Canadians: beware that new tax rules requiring digital platform operators to report their users’ income to the Canada Revenue Agency are expected for 2025. These laws would make Canada similar to the United States and the United Kingdom, among others. 

Amazon

Amazon is struggling to verify the VAT status of many UK sellers, and the fact the company holds all funds until the process is complete means many sellers are without income. 

eBay

eBay is offering 3 free “express payouts” to select US sellers by email only, available until June 30th. Money is paid to seller debit cards and can take a half hour or more to receive. (The usual cost is 1.5%.)

If you use eBay For Charity, you may want to check to see if the charity is getting paid, as some apparently are not. 

If you advertise on eBay, or just list inconsistently, you may be interested in the marketing trends calendar for 2024. It shows you when certain types of searches peak. 

Michaels Makerplace

The landing page for Makerplace sellers doesn’t provide a lot of hard details; some of the actual policies appear once you begin to sign up. Here’s how they define handmade: 

Thanks to Bluesky user Brushfeather for the info.

Shopify

Shopify is putting more effort into large businesses these days, despite its core offerings targeting small and medium-sized businesses for years. [soft paywall; Business Insider] The company “...has made a concerted effort over the last 18 months to introduce more software solutions to win over larger merchants. It has enhanced Shopify Plus, a higher-tier subscription with more features, and launched Hydrogen, a more custom framework geared toward retailers with more complex needs...Shopify introduced Commerce Components, an offering that allows merchants to integrate parts of Shopify's software into their existing tech stack. Mattel was its first retail partner for that product, and Everlane has since adopted Shop Pay as a stand-alone component.”

CEO Tobi Lutke recently received almost $200 million CAD in Shopify stock options, “one of the largest compensation packages in Canadian history.” As company founder, he now has around $8 billion worth of Shopify stock.

CIRRO Fulfillment now integrates with Shopify. 

Squarespace

Squarespace is rolling out Squarespace Payments to sellers in the United States, and they expect to add more countries later this year. Fees are in line with other payment processors. 

All Other Marketplaces

Mercari is following Depop and is ending seller transaction fees while adding a buyer fee. There is now a seller earnings withdrawal fee of $2, however, plus the pricing only applies to items listed after the announcement on March 27th, and sellers now have to accept returns for any reason, within 72 hours of receipt.  I suppose this fee might work for buyers if many are also sellers on Mercari or elsewhere, and are buying stock. If you see a good deal you know you can flip with a good margin, you might not mind paying a buyers fee on top of the listing price. The only other way I can see being willing to pay a buyers fee is if you are so enamoured with the platform and its culture that it is worth paying more for. Or maybe I am just out of touch… The Mercari CEO basically calls out Etsy for raising seller fees too much [soft paywall; Modern Retail]: “I’m not going to mention them by name, but you have marketplaces that have a lot of makers, a lot of people that create things, and the fees around selling on those platforms have just been going up a lot very aggressively”. [my emphasis] Mercari wants fees to remain competitive while attracting better inventory. Another article on Mercari’s announcement mentions Etsy by name when discussing seller fees. 

Mercari might want to consult lawyers the next time the site makes changes, though, as many sellers were furious that their existing balances were now subject to withdrawal fees without any warning, leading some to file complaints with the FTC. That led the company to announce that “On March 27, 2024, Mercari announced that it would begin charging a $2 fee(s) (“ACH Charge”) for all ACH direct deposit requests. Effective immediately through April 3, 2024 at 11:59 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time (“Waiver Period”), Mercari will waive the ACH Charge for ACH direct deposit requests made prior to the end of the Waiver Period for all eligible account holders.” Those who already incurred withdrawal charges will get refunds.

And because apparently you can never have enough Mercari news, they’ve introduced a listing importer for eBay and Depop. It uses AI. 

AliExpress will now do livestream shopping events in the UK. 

Payment Processing

PayPal users in the US will soon have only 30 days after delivery to file a significantly not described claim in most cases. Items not delivered by 180 days will still have the full 180 days. 

Shipping 

UPS is planning on closing about 200 facilities in the United States, and hopes to save money by instead using more automated hubs. Having fewer employees and consolidating locations is expected to save the company around $3 billion by the end of 2028. 

FedEx is continuing to combine its Express and Ground pickups and deliveries, both to save money and to make pickups easier on customers. 

[tryan-a-bex]

Legal as in, you can’t put instructions on how to make a bomb in a fic (well. You can but if the right people find out it could cause you some issues). You can’t incite to hate or violence against a class of people (unless it’s your strongly held religious views, apparently). You can’t slander a real person in a public forum without repercussions. Those are the limits on free speech (I was looking at Canadian law). Like above said, causing real world harm.

"You can't ship that!"

lol what are you gonna do, climb inside my mind and shut off the imagination switch?

[cikhinsights]

How to Stay Updated on Canada’s Latest Immigration News: Essential Resources and Tools

Canada’s immigration policies are constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for those navigating the immigration process—whether you are an international student, a skilled worker, or a family member of someone applying for immigration. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources and tools available to help you stay updated on the latest developments in Canadian immigration law, regulations, and opportunities. Here are some essential resources and strategies to help you stay in the loop.

1. Official Government Websites

The first and most reliable source for Canada’s immigration news is the Government of Canada’s official website. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website is regularly updated with information on study permits, work visas, permanent residency pathways, and the latest changes to immigration policies.

IRCC Website: The official IRCC page (https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) is the primary resource for news releases, updates, and details about immigration programs.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): For travelers and those with questions about border procedures, the CBSA website is also helpful in understanding the latest regulations and requirements.

2. News and Media Outlets

Various Canadian news outlets and global media sources provide regular updates on immigration-related topics. Keeping an eye on trusted news sites can help you get the latest on any changes to immigration policies, new announcements, or significant news stories affecting newcomers to Canada.

CBC News: As one of the largest and most reliable news platforms in Canada, CBC regularly covers updates related to Canadian immigration.

The Globe and Mail: Another trusted source for immigration-related news, The Globe and Mail offers articles, opinion pieces, and in-depth reports on Canada’s immigration system. .

3. Social Media Accounts and Blogs

Social media platforms have become vital tools for staying updated on immigration news. Many official government agencies, as well as immigration consultants, regularly post updates on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

IRCC Social Media: The IRCC has active Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts where they share real-time news, policy updates, and tips for applicants. Follow them to stay informed about the latest developments.

Immigration Experts and Consultants: Many licensed immigration consultants and law firms also maintain blogs or social media accounts dedicated to providing up-to-date immigration advice. Following well-regarded consultants can give you insights into recent changes and tips for navigating the Canadian immigration system.

4. Newsletters and Email Subscriptions

Subscribing to newsletters or email alerts from trusted immigration sources can be an excellent way to receive timely updates directly in your inbox. The IRCC, for instance, offers the option to subscribe to email notifications regarding updates on immigration policies, new applications, and immigration draws.

Additionally, numerous immigration consultancy firms provide newsletters that highlight news, policy changes, and useful tips for those seeking to immigrate to Canada. Opt for reputable services like CIC News or Canada Immigration News to receive curated, easy-to-read immigration updates.

5. Online Forums and Communities

Online forums and communities can provide valuable insights from fellow immigrants, experts, and consultants who have firsthand knowledge of the immigration system. Participating in discussions or simply reading through the posts can help you stay informed about the latest trends and updates.

Reddit: Subreddits like r/ImmigrationCanada and r/CanadaImmigration are dedicated to discussions about immigration to Canada. You can find the latest news, advice from others in similar situations, and share your experiences.

CanadaVisa Forum: This dedicated forum, hosted by the company CanadaVisa, is another great place to find answers to your immigration questions and get updates on policy changes.

6. Mobile Apps

There are several apps available that can help you track Canada’s immigration news and updates. Some apps provide alerts on changes to immigration regulations, and others let you track your immigration status or processing times.

IRCC Mobile App: The IRCC offers an official mobile app for those who want to track their immigration status, apply for visas, and receive updates about their applications.

Immigrate Canada App: This app provides updates on immigration programs and helps users navigate the Canadian immigration process.

7. Professional Immigration Consultants

Finally, staying in touch with a licensed immigration consultant can be a highly effective way to stay informed about the latest changes. These professionals stay up to date with immigration regulations and can offer personalized advice to guide you through the process. Make sure to select a regulated consultant from organizations like the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).

For those looking for expert advice and comprehensive resources, the Canada Immigration Knowledge Hub (CIKH) provides a platform for individuals to access reliable immigration updates, insights, and professional support.

Conclusion

Staying updated on Canada’s latest immigration news is vital for anyone looking to live, work, or study in the country. By utilizing official government websites, following trusted news outlets, subscribing to newsletters, and engaging with online communities, you can ensure you’re well-informed about any changes to policies or procedures. Additionally, staying connected to professional immigration consultants or experts is a great way to receive personalized advice. With these essential tools and resources, you can navigate the Canadian immigration system with confidence and stay ahead of any changes that may impact your plans. For more in-depth support, Canada Immigration Knowledge Hub (CIKH) is a reliable resource for all things related to Canadian immigration.

[ashadowofburnedoutstardust]

Brain vomit:

Who else besides NP invested money in tempus? I'm guessing the same company that signed up JB

How are they linked to Googles recent AI development? Is this just a distraction or is tempest some sort of american-based front to continue the work of Elbit? How new is this company and who owns it?

It's weird to consider that behind the scenes that it's the entire US government versus the f****** Israel lobby and everything they're doing is meant to be a distraction while they try and do something else

China is examining an investigating Google, Google lifts it's no AI policy, are they using some type of AI scanning software created by a particular Chinese company to help weed out what's been put inside their servers that they weren't aware of?

Did Mossad leave themselves a back door into all of these American systems that they neglected to mention or simply kept secret, it wouldn't surprise me

The planes stopped crashing, so I presume they got that under control

I'm guessing that by the time they get enough people flipped to get this impeachment process going that the tariff pause will probably be ending by that point and will be reintroduced, resulting in retaliation tariffs from everyone who is exposed to them, meanwhile boycotting the USA should be in full swing by this point by the rest of the global public.

Either that or they should have swapped trade partners to exclude as much of us owned or us produced brands, because the entire idea is to attempt to bankrupt the Israel lobbyists source of income

Unfortunately in the meantime they are rounding people up, and some people just tried to cross a Canadian border by going through the wilderness because they were too scared to go the legitimate ways trying to avoid US law enforcement

Apparently the Baltic States literally just cut power and swapped over to the European grid and are no longer dependant on Russia

Something is niggling at my brain

I am honestly of the opinion that somebody will target the pipeline infrastructure supplying the USA, but that's mostly because the thing that started off this entire mess was somebody bombing Russia's pipeline, in my opinion that was the mossad doing it on behalf of the Americans and they framed the Ukrainians for it, and as a result Russia invaded the ukraine

I would hazard a guess that they did this due to the fact that Russia "interfered in the first Trump election" as well as the subsequent one

Here's the thing, I don't think it's been Russia that's been interfering with the US election, but I am struggling to understand their motive. They are clearly US based, now whether it's just some white supremacist faction of the republicans that are attempting to use Russia as a scapegoat for everything they do it wouldn't surprise me, in fact it would make sense, not that Russia or China at terribly different than the USA in terms of business strategies, they are the same actor wearing a different mask and I just as wasteful as the US

Look at how much pollution and waste comes out of all those online shopping forums in terms of packaging, shipping, and fuel usage. Like I've said in a previous post they just avoiding contributing to the local economy and attempting to make themselves wealthier, they just rape economies in a different way, I will never buy online again. If it's not in my hand when I'm paying for it nobody's going to be getting my money

Would the white supremacist faction within the republicans really go to this much hassle just to try and paint themselves as the only people with the solution while attempting to paint Russia as the bad guy? They're literally two signs of the same coin, the hypocrisy is outrageous, I hope both sides end up in a war crimes Court

A manufactured problem that they create in order to come in and pretend to be the hero at the end of it?

Sounds like something I Hollywood agency would come up with doesn't it

That's really not going to work out the way they thought it was because unless the US starts putting in place health and safety, restoring women's rights, and a decent healthcare system, the rest of the world will continue to distance itself from the US and it will continue to get poorer and poorer and poorer

I don't think I will ever stop boycotting everything to do with the USA, it's music, it's movies, it's products, I will never willingly and knowingly give a dime to the US economy ever again in my life

The entire society for its entire existence has been built on different types of slavery, and now it's just turned into an authoritarian regime that will never ever regain any form of credibility with the rest of the world ever again, it deserves to be ostracized that way

The bullshit regarding a two-state solution, yeah that needs to stop and Israel needs to be deconstructed and handed over to the Palestinians, swap places entirely, sweep out all the Israelis and herd them all onto the Gaza strip and leave them to rebuild their society, complete with fences to keep them contained, I can think of worse things they are deserving of

[oasisvisa]

Discover the Key LMIA Canada Requirements for Employee

LMIA is one of the important documents issued by Employment and Social Development Canada, or ESDC, under which employers in Canada are required to submit if they wish to hire foreign workers. LMIA ensures that the hiring of foreign nationals will not adversely affect the Canadian labor market. Procedures to follow and requirements to fulfill hiring foreign workers legally in Canada can only be achieved by fulfilling the LMIA Canada requirements. 

LMIA assesses the impact that the hiring of a foreign national is likely to have on the Canadian labor market. The hiring of a foreign worker will only occur if it has been determined that no other qualified Canadian is willing to do the job. This makes it essential in guarding Canadian employment opportunities and in working towards an understanding of labor market imbalances.

Why is LMIA important?

LMIA Canada requirements are aimed at ensuring that the stability in the workforce is maintained. They give an opportunity for the government to inspect labor market gaps and establish policies to implement them. It also makes the employers liable to ensuring that their recruitment process is transparent and has followed the laws on labor.

LMIA Canada Requirements

To be able to successfully acquire an LMIA, the employers have to satisfy some major LMIA Canada requirements, which include:

1. Job Offer Details: The offer job needs to detail the utmost importance of including such salient components as:

Job Title: State clearly the position being offered

Duties and responsibilities: Explain what the foreign worker is expected to do.

Wage Information: Pay must be at or higher than the regional and occupational average.

Work Conditions: The employer must meet the country's standards with respect to the safety of employees and prerogatives of employment.

2. Promotion Activities: Employers must show that he has exercised every reasonable effort to recruit the applicant from among Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This comprises:

Advertising: Advertises the position on multiple forums for at least four weeks

Documentation: Maintains thorough records of the recruitment activities undertaken, including applications received and reasons for not hiring Canadian candidate

3. LMIA Application Process

   Application process includes

Application form: A duly filled-out form of LMIA application that would describe the job offered and recruitment efforts.

Background Documents: Recruitment documents; these include advertisements and applicants' files.

Fees: Application processing fee payable to submit the LMIA application.

4. Adherence to Employment Standards

   An employer has to conform to federal, provincial, and territorial employment standards that impose:

 Minimum Wage: An employer should pay at least the current minimum wage as determined from time to time under different regions and sectors.

Workplace Safety: He is ensuring that all applicable health and safety legislations are up.

5. Employment Insurance (EI) Contributions: He should register with the CRA and pay EI as evidence that he obeys the laws of labor in Canada.

Types of LMIA

There are two main types of LMIA applications according to the wage level :

1. High-Wage LMIA

For jobs where there is a provincial or territorial median wage or average wage higher than the employer pays, this employer will have to demonstrate labor shortages and explain why a foreign worker is necessary, considering the abundance of local talent.

2. Low-Wage LMIA

Jobs with salaries below the median are usually in sectors experiencing labour shortages. The labour market conditions in which an employer is hiring international workers may need to be satisfied with additional needs by TFWP.

Exemptions from LMIA Canada

Certain types of employees are exempt from applying for LMIA Canada. These are categorized into: Intracompany Transfers: employees transferring to other locations within the same company.

International students fall under graduates who are permitted to work without the requirement of LMIA under particular programs. Provincial nominees: the workers could be exempted from LMIA provided that they had been nominated by provinces for permanent residence.

In order for employers to recruit foreign workers, they must be aware of the requirements of LMIA Canada. Strict recruitment along with full compliance with employment standards will have to be demonstrated by employers in order not to create chaos while going through the LMIA process. Hence, the LMIA is to strike a balance in the labor market by both protecting Canadian workers and yet to address actual labor shortages. Proper care has to be taken when preparing applications on the part of the employer, along with all necessary evidence to be backed up so as to avoid delay or rejection.

Looking for help with your immigration? Oasis Visas is here to guide you from start to finish. Just send us an email at info@oasis-india.com, and we’ll help make your dream of moving abroad a reality!

[bllsbailey]

Just Days After Trump Announces Tariffs, Justin Trudeau Heads to Mar-a-Lago

Earlier this week, as we covered at the time, President-elect Donald announced tariffs on Canada and Mexico, citing concerns with fentanyl and "Open Borders." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum were quick to scramble to address such matters, with Trudeau stressing to reporters on Tuesday morning that he had had "a good call" with Trump. Just days after that, on Friday, it was revealed that Trudeau traveled to Mar-a-Lago. 

As Fox News reported on Friday night:

A person familiar with the matter said Trudeau will have dinner with Trump. The official was not authorized to speak publicly about the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity. Canadian Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc accompanied Trudeau on the trip. Trudeau is the first G-7 leader to visit Trump since the U.S. election.

A report from The New York Times had similar information:

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada on Friday night landed in Florida to see President-elect Donald J. Trump at Mar-a-Lago, two officials with direct knowledge of the visit said, after a threat by Mr. Trump to impose across-the-board tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico on Day 1. The visit makes Mr. Trudeau the first head of government from the Group of 7, a key forum of global coordination consisting of the world’s wealthiest democracies, to visit the president-elect. One official said that Mr. Trudeau and Mr. Trump would dine together Friday evening, and that Mr. Trudeau was expected to stay in the area overnight, but not at Mar-a-Lago, Mr. Trump’s private club and home in Palm Beach, Fla. Mr. Trudeau was accompanied on his visit by Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s minister of public safety. ... Mr. Trudeau has tried to project calm and confidence, saying that he believed that Mr. Trump would see that tariffs would harm both countries, which are each other’s biggest trading partners. About 80 percent of Canada’s oil and 40 percent of its gas are exported to the United States, and the two countries are deeply intertwined through the joint manufacturing of cars, as well as in multiple other industries. The Mar-a-Lago visit on Friday, which was initially reported by The Globe and Mail newspaper on the basis of tracking Mr. Trudeau’s plane, is intended as a direct effort by Mr. Trudeau to show that he has a plan to address Mr. Trump’s border concerns, and that tariffs should be avoided for the sake of both nations’ economies. ... Mr. Trudeau is facing considerable pressure over how to handle this difficult moment. The imposition of tariffs on Canada would throw the country into recession, economists believe, as doing business with the United States is the lifeblood of the economies of several Canadian provinces. But Mr. Trudeau is in a precarious political moment, too, after nine years in power. He faces elections in the coming months, and polls show his party, the Liberal Party, is set to lose badly to the Conservatives led by Pierre Poilievre.

The Fox News report also mentioned how Canada claims to be taking their border security concerns seriously. "Shortly after Trump's tariff promises, Canadian officials said the country places the 'highest priority' on border security," it read. 

Canada, a particularly liberal country, has had rather lax immigration laws. As Madeline reported early last week, Trudeau finally admitted in a video message posted in English and French that his country made a mistake, and will be doing something "major" by "reducing the numbers of immigrants that will come to Canada for the next three years."

Trump has spoken about tariffs at length, and it looks like he's back on his way to making sure that America is feared and respected once again, before he's even officially taken office. The tariffs Trump announced earlier this week are set for day one of his administration, on January 20. 

Even if Trudeau does on for the next election, and it's doubtful that he will, as even The New York Times admits, it looks quite hopeful that Trump will have the right kind of relationship with our neighbor to the north. 

Trending on Townhall Videos

[odnewsin]

Security upped outside Canadian High Commission due to protest against temple attack

New Delhi: Security has been beefed up outside the Canadian High Commission here as members of a Hindu-Sikh outfit marched towards it in protest against attacks on Hindu temples in Canada. The Hindu Sikh Global Forum members are marching towards the High Commission in the Chanakyapuri area. Police said they have raised barricadings outside the High Commission to ensure there is no breach in law…

[vesselplacards]

Make Waves this Holiday Season: Boat Placards & Coast Guard Vessel Registry Tips

The holiday season isn’t just for family gatherings and festive lights; it’s also a prime time for boat enthusiasts to hit the water and revel in the cooler breezes and serene seascapes. At Vessel Placards, we’re here to ensure your boating adventures are memorable and compliant with the Coast Guard vessel registry requirements. Our wide range of boat placards is designed to meet your needs, blending both functionality and style.

Why the Coast Guard Vessel Registry Matters Understanding the importance of the coast guard vessel registry is crucial for every boat owner. It not only ensures that your vessel adheres to maritime laws but also enhances safety and accountability on the water. In fact, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, properly registered boats are less likely to be involved in accidents, ensuring a safer experience for everyone on board.

Seasonal Trends in Boating As the holidays approach, boating enthusiasts gear up for a series of events. Boat parades, winter festivals, and nautical light shows become the highlight of the season. These events not only provide a festive atmosphere but also highlight the need for compliant and stylish vessel placards, which can make your boat stand out amidst the holiday sparkle.

Nautical Celebrations and Safety Holiday boat parades are a delight to participate in, and having the right boat placards is crucial. Not only do they protect your boat’s identity, but they also add a touch of elegance. Imagine cruising through a winter wonderland on the water, with twinkling lights reflecting off your polished mahogany or stainless-steel placard.

Choosing the Right Vessel Placard for the Season At Vessel Placards, we offer a variety of options to suit your style and compliance needs. Whether you prefer the timeless beauty of mahogany or the modern allure of stainless steel, our placards are crafted to withstand the elements while adding a personalized touch to your vessel.

Winter Boating Tips for Enthusiasts Prepare for the Weather: Ensure your boat is ready for colder temperatures. Check antifreeze levels and inspect the hull for any damage. Safety First: Equip your vessel with appropriate winter gear, including flares, life jackets, and a first aid kit. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be aware of changing conditions. Community and Connection Joining a community of like-minded boating enthusiasts can enhance your holiday experience. Whether you’re sharing tips on Reddit forums or attending local boat shows, connecting with others can provide valuable insights and camaraderie.

Enhancing Your Boating Experience with Vessel Placards Our expert curation ensures that each placard meets Coast Guard standards, while our exclusive deals for subscribers offer added value during the holiday season. By choosing Vessel Placards, you’re investing in quality, style, and compliance.

The Impact of Proper Registration Proper registration not only enhances safety but also adds to the enjoyment of your boating activities. Vessel Placards makes it easy to stay compliant, with options that cater to both state-registered vessels and those with Canadian licenses.

The holiday season is a fantastic time for boat enthusiasts to enjoy the water while celebrating with family and friends. As you prepare for your boating adventures, it’s essential to ensure that your vessel is properly registered and compliant with regulations. That’s where the US Vessel Registrar Center comes in!

At the US Vessel Registrar Center, the documentation, renewal, and registration processes are online, easy, and efficient. This holiday season, don’t just focus on festive lights and gatherings; ensure your boat is ready for the water by taking care of your registration needs.

Why Choose the US Vessel Registrar Center? Streamlined Process: Simplified registration process, so you can spend more time making memories on the water. Expert Guidance: Their team is here to assist you with any questions regarding vessel documentation and compliance. Stay Compliant: Proper registration enhances safety on the water and ensures your boat is ready for all seasonal festivities. As you gear up for a joyful holiday season filled with boat parades and nautical celebrations, make sure your vessel is compliant and prepared. Visit the US Vessel Registrar Center today for all your documentation, renewal, and registration needs: https://usvesselregistrar.us/](https://usvesselregistrar.us/

Set sail into the season with confidence, knowing that your vessel is fully registered and ready for adventure!

Planning for Future Adventures Looking beyond the holiday season, consider the upcoming boat festivals and shows. A well-placed, eye-catching placard can turn your boat into a centerpiece, attracting attention and admiration from fellow enthusiasts.

The Role of Technology in Boating With advancements in marine technology, staying ahead of trends is easier than ever. From GPS systems to trolling motors, incorporating tech elements can enhance your overall boating experience.

Boat Placards: Style & Compliance for Your Boating Adventures Incorporating stylish and compliant vessel placards into your holiday boating plans is more than just a legal requirement; it’s an opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the water. Explore our selection of metal placards and more accesories at Vessel Placards and set sail into a season full of adventure and celebration.

[newstfionline]

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Canadian doctors who provide euthanasia struggle with the ethics of killing vulnerable patients (AP) A homeless man refusing long-term care, a woman with severe obesity, an injured worker given meager government assistance, and grieving new widows. All of them requested to be killed under Canada’s euthanasia system, and each sparked private debate among doctors and nurses struggling with the ethics of one of the world’s most permissive laws on the practice, according to an Associated Press investigation. As Canada pushes to expand euthanasia and more countries move to legalize it, health care workers here are grappling with requests from people whose pain might be alleviated by money, adequate housing or social connections. And internal data obtained exclusively by AP from Canada’s most populous province suggest a significant number of people euthanized when they are in unmanageable pain but not about to die live in Ontario’s poorest and most deprived areas. On private forums, doctors and nurses have expressed deep discomfort with ending the lives of vulnerable people whose deaths were avoidable, according to messages provided to AP by a participant on condition of anonymity due to their confidentiality.

Global Public Debt to Hit $100 Trillion by End of 2024, IMF Says (Bloomberg) Global public debt is set to reach $100 trillion, or 93% of global gross domestic product, by the end of this year, driven by the US and China, according to new analysis by the International Monetary Fund. In its latest Fiscal Monitor—an overview of global public finance developments—the IMF said it expects debt to approach 100% of GDP by 2030, and it warns that governments will need to make tough decisions to stabilize borrowing. Debt is tipped to increase in the US, Brazil, France, Italy, South Africa and UK, according to the IMF report, which urges governments to rein in debt.

Worldwide Efforts to Reverse the Baby Shortage Are Falling Flat (WSJ) Imagine if having children came with more than $150,000 in cheap loans, a subsidized minivan and a lifetime exemption from income taxes. Would people have more kids? The answer, it seems, is no. These are among the benefits—along with cheap child care, extra vacation and free fertility treatments—that have been doled out to parents in different parts of Europe, a region at the forefront of the worldwide baby shortage. Europe’s overall population shrank during the pandemic and is on track to contract by about 40 million by 2050, according to United Nations statistics. Birthrates have been falling across the developed world since the 1960s. But the decline hit Europe harder and faster than demographers expected—a foreshadowing of the sudden drop in the U.S. fertility rate in recent years.

Americans’ Trust in Media Remains Low (Gallup) Americans continue to register record-low trust in the mass media, with 31% expressing a “great deal” or “fair amount” of confidence in the media to report the news “fully, accurately and fairly,” similar to last year’s 32%. Americans’ trust in the media—such as newspapers, television and radio—first fell to 32% in 2016 and did so again last year. For the third consecutive year, more U.S. adults have no trust at all in the media (36%) than trust it a great deal or fair amount. Another 33% of Americans express “not very much” confidence. Gallup first asked this question in 1972 and has measured it in most years since 1997. In three readings in the 1970s, trust ranged from 68% to 72%. The news media is the least trusted group among 10 U.S. civic and political institutions involved in the democratic process. The legislative branch of the federal government, consisting of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, is rated about as poorly as the media, with 34% trusting it.

In the heartland of Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel, violence rages (AP) Cellphone chats have become death sentences in the continuing, bloody factional war inside Mexico’s Sinaloa drug cartel. Cartel gunmen stop youths on the street or in their cars and demand their phones. If they find a contact who’s a member of a rival faction, a chat with a wrong word or a photo with the wrong person, the phone owner is dead. Then, they’ll go after everyone on that person’s contact list, forming a potential chain of kidnapping, torture and death. That has left residents of Culiacan, the capital of Sinaloa state, afraid to even leave home at night, much less visit towns a few miles away where many have weekend retreats. “You can’t go five minutes out of the city, ... not even in daylight,” said Ismael Bojórquez, a veteran journalist in Culiacan. “Why? Because the narcos have set up roadblocks and they stop you and search through your cellphone.” And it’s not just your own chats: If a person is traveling in a car with others, one bad contact or chat can get the whole group kidnapped.

Hereditary nobles have sat in Britain’s Parliament for centuries. Their time may be up (AP) Like his ancestors for centuries, the Earl of Devon serves in Parliament, helping to make the laws of the land. But not for much longer. British lawmakers voted Tuesday to approve in principle a bill to strip hereditary aristocrats of the right to sit and vote in the House of Lords after more than 700 years. The Labour Party government says the decision will complete a long-stalled reform of Parliament’s upper chamber and remove an “outdated and indefensible” relic of the past. Constitution Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds noted that Britain is one of only two countries—the other is Lesotho—with a hereditary element to its parliament.

Scale of Chinese Spying Overwhelms Western Governments (WSJ) Beijing is conducting espionage activities on what Western governments say is an unprecedented scale, mobilizing security agencies, private companies and Chinese civilians in its quest to undermine rival states and bolster the country’s economy. Rarely does a week go by without a warning from a Western intelligence agency about the threat that China presents. Last month alone, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said a Chinese state-linked firm hacked 260,000 internet-connected devices, including cameras and routers, in the U.S., Britain, France, Romania and elsewhere. A Congressional probe said Chinese cargo cranes used at U.S. seaports had embedded technology that could allow Beijing to secretly control them. The U.S. government alleged that a former top aide to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul was a Chinese agent. U.S. officials last week launched an effort to understand the consequences of the latest Chinese hack, which compromised systems the federal government uses for court-authorized network wiretapping requests. Western spy agencies, unable to contain Beijing’s activity, are raising the alarm publicly, urging businesses and individuals to be on alert in their interactions with China. Beijing has previously denied allegations of espionage targeting Western countries while portraying China as a frequent target of foreign hacking and intelligence-gathering operations.

‘Stunning’ hidden tomb found at Petra site featured in ‘Indiana Jones’ (Washington Post) About 2,000 years ago, the powerful ancient kingdom of the Nabataeans hand-carved a city into the sandstone cliffs of Petra, Jordan. At its center: an imposing, 12-column structure that has since become known as the Treasury. Since then, archaeologists have attempted to understand what the structure was used for, with some speculating that it was a mausoleum built as the final resting place of an important ruler of this era. Now, a team of researchers has made what they called a “stunning” discovery: a chamber buried underneath the Treasury, also known as al-Khazneh, that contains the remains of 12 people and other items they say could finally reveal the structure’s secrets and shed some light on the origins of Petra. One of the items found was a ceramic vessel that “looked nearly identical to the Holy Grail” depicted in Steven Spielberg’s “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” which filmed at the Treasury.

Israel restarts bombing of Beirut (BBC) Israeli strikes in the Lebanese city of Nabatieh have killed at least five people, including the city's mayor, a local source has told the BBC's Riam Dalati. The strikes came after Israel attacked Beirut for the first time in five days, and after Israeli media and the Lebanese prime minister, Najib Mikati, said the US had urged Israel to stop targeting the Lebanese capital. Beirut is fast filling up with refugees from other parts of Lebanon fleeing Israel's attacks on Hezbollah. Many are living on the streets of a city itself in the grip of war. To make room, the Lebanese government postponed the start of the school year and designated 1,000 schools as shelters. In southern Lebanon, the UN has refused demands by Israel to move its peacekeeping soldiers out of the way of its forces. A Unifil spokesperson accused the Israeli military of “deliberately” firing on its positions and 40 of the nations that contribute troops to Unifil said last week that they “strongly condemn recent attacks” on the peacekeepers. For many in the current Israeli administration, the bottom line is that the United Nations and its organisations have been inherently and structurally anti-Israel.

Lebanon’s Hospitals Buckle Amid Israel’s Offensive Against Hezbollah (NYT) It was 12:54 a.m., and Elie Hachem had not slept in days when the chief nurse at his Beirut hospital called him in a panic. The Israeli military had announced that it would begin striking “Hezbollah facilities” in the area, and had ordered the hospital to evacuate. Dozens of staff members and patients were still inside, among them premature babies hooked up to incubators, Mr. Hachem said. “We only had 20 minutes,” he said, describing the events this month at St. Therese Hospital, where he is the director, on the outskirts of Beirut. “Maybe less.” The airstrike landed just 80 yards from the hospital and caused heavy damage, collapsing ceilings and flooding parts of the health facility, though no one was harmed, Mr. Hachem said. The next day, fearing their luck would run out, Mr. Hachem ordered the Christian hospital shut down. “The staff are traumatized,” he said. St. Therese is one of at least nine hospitals in Lebanon that are now shuttered or only partly functional, according to the World Health Organization.

U.S. Warns Israel of Military Aid Cut if Gazans Don’t Get More Supplies (NYT) The United States has warned Israel to increase the flow of humanitarian supplies into the war-devastated Gaza Strip within the next 30 days or risk losing military aid, American officials said Tuesday. The warning came in a letter signed by the American secretaries of defense and state that was sent on Sunday to Israel’s defense minister and its minister of strategic affairs. It was confirmed on Tuesday by a State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller. Mr. Miller said the amount of aid entering Gaza in September was the lowest it had been at any time since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, that set off the Israeli invasion.

Fuel tanker explodes in Nigeria, killing 147 people (Reuters) A fuel tanker crashed and exploded in Jigawa state in northern Nigeria late on Tuesday after the driver lost control of the vehicle, leaving 147 people dead and wounding others, a police spokesperson said on Wednesday. The incident occurred in Majia town in the Taura local government area, about 530 kilometers (329.33 miles) north of the capital Abuja. The casualties were local residents who had gathered to collect fuel from the tanker after it crashed. Many roads in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, are poorly maintained and riven with potholes, causing accidents that claim dozens of lives every year.

Years of war in Congo have created a dire mental health crisis (AP) For Nelly Shukuru, there was no way out. The fighting that forced her from her home, the squalid conditions in the displacement camp in eastern Congo, the hunger, all felt inescapable. The 51-year-old planned to hang herself. She said a neighbor stopped her just in time. “In my mind, the suffering was permanent,” said the mother of six, seated in a health clinic. “The people who have died are better off than I am.” Years of conflict in eastern Congo have created a dire mental health crisis. Aid groups say the number of people seeking care has spiked as fighting intensifies. Some of the worst affected struggle to survive in cramped, violent displacement sites that aren’t conducive to recovery. More than 100 armed groups have been vying for a foothold in mineral-rich eastern Congo near the border with Rwanda. The fighting has displaced millions. “All around us there is war, and the number of people facing difficulty is increasing daily,” said Innocent Ntamuheza, a psychologist with Action Against Hunger.