NPR News: 04-17-2026 5PM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from April 17, 2026, delivers updates on escalating US-Iran tensions, including the first oil tanker transit through the blockaded Strait of Hormuz amid conflicting Iranian signals; economic forecasts on gas prices and a historic defense spending request; strong Wall Street gains; human rights issues for Salvadoran deportees; and Pope Leo's outreach in Africa.

First Tanker Passes Strait of Hormuz Under US Blockade

A Pakistan-flagged oil tanker heading home became the first vessel to transit the Strait of Hormuz carrying crude oil since the US imposed a blockade on Monday. This development highlights ongoing uncertainties in the waterway, critical for global oil flows. Iran's responses have been inconsistent, reflecting internal power struggles. Foreign Minister Abbas Arachi stated that all commercial ships could pass freely. However, the Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Command countered that vessels need its permission and warned of reciprocal measures if the US blockade persists. New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Haminei then described the strait as conditionally open. NPR's Jackie Northam noted these competing statements as illustrative of Iran's fragmented authority structures.