NPR News: 04-23-2026 7PM EDT

This NPR News Now episode delivers a snapshot of developments including the ongoing war in Iran, a federal ruling on an immigration detention case, wildfires in Georgia and Florida, a marijuana policy shift, NFL draft anticipation, and Wall Street's close.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions Escalate

President Trump stated he is not rushing into a deal to end the war in Iran, emphasizing a deliberate approach during a White House question session. He ruled out nuclear weapons, noting U.S. forces have "decimated" Iranian capabilities through conventional means alone. Trump also directed the Navy to "shoot and kill" any boats attempting to lay mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipping. NPR's Jackie Northam reported that shipping has virtually halted due to fears of mines and Iranian attacks on vessels. While no reliable mine counts exist, the mere threat has kept many ships anchored. A classified Pentagon assessment, shared with Congress and cited by The Washington Post, estimates it could take up to six months to clear the strait—a process that would not start until after the war ends. This impasse disrupts international trade routes, amplifying economic pressures from the conflict.