A hiring sign is displayed at a restaurant in Morton Grove, Ill., Thursday, May 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) WASHINGTON (AP) — More Americans sought unemployment benefits last week, but layoffs remain low despite economic uncertainty caused by the Iran war. The Labor Department reported Thursday that jobless claims were up to 215,000, up from 210,000 the week before. The four-week moving average of claims, which smooths out week-to-week volatility, rose by nearly 6,300 to 209,000.
Main Idea: U.S. jobless claims rose slightly to 215,000, but layoffs stayed low even as the Iran war darkened the economic outlook.
Key Points:
Iran war risks higher gas prices and slower spending, which can squeeze household budgets and hurt small businesses.
Jobless claims are still low, so most workers have not faced layoffs yet.
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Central country in the conflict described as clouding the U.S. economic outlook and disrupting oil supplies.
Named president whose immigration crackdown is cited as affecting hiring and the broader labor outlook.
Named economist quoted to assess the labor market and jobless claims trend.
Economic research firm quoted for commentary on the significance of the claims data.
Named country participating in the conflict referenced as driving oil-price and economic concerns.
Location mentioned in the photo caption only.
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