NPR News: 04-17-2026 8AM EDT

Britain and France are hosting talks with officials from more than 40 nations on securing shipping in the Strait of Hormuz once it reopens, amid a US-Iran blockade during their two-week ceasefire. The episode also marks the first day of a 10-day temporary ceasefire in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, announced by President Trump. Additional updates cover RFK Jr.'s congressional testimony on HHS, uncertainty in the US housing market, New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani's first 100 days, and severe flooding in Michigan.

Strait of Hormuz Blockade and Security Discussions

Leaders from Britain and France are meeting today with representatives from over 40 countries to discuss protecting ships in the Strait of Hormuz after it reopens. The strait remains blockaded by both the US and Iran as part of their ongoing two-week ceasefire. These talks focus on safety measures for maritime traffic in this critical chokepoint, which has been disrupted by the conflict. No specific outcomes from the meeting were reported, but the discussions underscore international efforts to restore safe passage once the blockade lifts.