NPR News: 05-09-2026 8PM EDT

Israel and Hezbollah traded strikes amid fragile ceasefire efforts, as the U.S. State Department announced upcoming talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington next week. These two days of discussions aim at long-term peace and security agreements. Israel reported airstrikes on a Hezbollah weapons depot in the South Lebanon village of Tura, claiming efforts to minimize civilian casualties. However, the known fatalities were three women, an elderly disabled man, and a girl at home during the attack; Israel provided no proof of the weapons site. Hezbollah responded with strikes on Israeli military targets, while Israel has intensified operations ahead of the talks.

US Redistricting Battles

Louisiana must adopt a new congressional map following a Supreme Court decision restricting the use of race in drawing districts, prompting protests. Separately, the Virginia Supreme Court rejected a plan due to a procedural error that might have favored Democrats. NPR's Pierce Don Gagne explained the stakes: amid voter concerns over pocketbook issues, gas prices, healthcare, and unpopular wars, redistricting allows one party to redraw maps in its favor. This acts as a buffer against current disapproval levels, potentially shifting electoral outcomes by entrenching advantages before key votes.

Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship