NPR News: 04-18-2026 3AM EDT

NPR News Now's latest update highlights tensions in the Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran frictions, alongside US energy policy shifts, a protest against immigration detention conditions, setbacks in India's push for women's legislative quotas, a security investigation in London, and a golf leaderboard snapshot.

Strait of Hormuz Reopens Amid Threats and Peace Talks

Iran announced it has fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. However, Iranian officials threatened to close it again if the US maintains its blockade of Iranian ships and ports. This follows recent fighting, underscoring the strait's vulnerability as a flashpoint. President Trump, speaking Friday at a Turning Point USA event, stated that a peace deal with Iran is almost complete. He criticized NATO for offering military help too late, recounting a recent call: "I received a call from NATO asking if we would like some help. Thank you very much, NATO. And I told them I would have liked your help two months ago, but now I really [don't need it]." The remarks highlight ongoing strains in US alliances during the conflict, with Trump emphasizing unilateral US efforts.