NPR News: 05-13-2026 1AM EDT

President Trump is traveling to China amid the ongoing Iran War, with new economic data showing its domestic fallout, alongside reports on violence against Palestinian children, unsafe gun storage practices, a major bridge collapse settlement, and mixed Asian markets.

Trump's China Visit and Iran War Outlook

President Trump stated before departing for China that he anticipates a lengthy discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the Iran War but does not believe U.S. assistance from China is necessary to end it. Speaking to reporters, Trump remarked, "I don't think we need any help from Iran to be honest with you. They're defeated militarily and they'll either do the right thing or we'll finish the job." He is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to oil and natural gas tankers—a critical chokepoint disrupting global energy flows. China, a significant purchaser of Iranian oil, has sustained diplomatic ties with Iran, including a recent visit by Iran's foreign minister to Beijing last week. These factors underscore the geopolitical tensions influencing Trump's trip, where trade and security discussions could intersect with efforts to resolve the conflict.