NPR News: 04-24-2026 3AM EDT

This NPR News Now update from April 24, 2026, leads with President Trump's escalation of tensions in the Strait of Hormuz amid stalled US-Iran talks, alongside reports on severe weather in Oklahoma, a targeted mall shooting, Meta's layoffs, a potential airline bailout, and mixed Asian markets.

Strait of Hormuz Standoff

With US-Iran negotiations stalled, President Trump ordered the US Navy on Thursday to "shoot and kill any boat trying to lay mines" in the Strait of Hormuz. Fears of mines and Iranian attacks have halted nearly all shipping through the vital waterway, leaving some vessels anchored despite low odds of direct hits. A classified Pentagon assessment, shared with Congress and reported by the Washington Post, estimates it could take up to six months to fully clear the strait—and only after any war ends. Trump dismissed this on social media, claiming US minesweepers had already begun operations. Separately, the Navy boarded a second ship carrying oil from Iran. In the Oval Office, Trump emphasized he won't rush a deal, prioritizing prevention of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.