Fox News Hourly Update — 12PM ET, April 13, 2026

Host: Lisa Brady (FOX News Podcasts)
Date: April 13, 2026

Episode Overview

This fast-paced update covers the top U.S. and international headlines at noon, focusing on growing military tensions between the U.S. and Iran, a political scandal impacting the California governor’s race, international reactions from Pope Leo, child safety developments in online gaming, and breaking news about Britney Spears’ legal troubles.

Key Stories and Discussion Points

1. U.S.-Iran Tensions and Naval Blockade

• U.S. Navy Enforces Blockade in Strait of Hormuz
  • The Navy is acting to halt Iranian oil trade, following failed peace talks.
  • President Trump has escalated military warnings, vowing that,

    "any Iranian ship, including small, fast attack vessels, will be immediately eliminated if they come near a U.S. blockade."
    (Narrator/News Anchor, 00:13)

  • He's also vowed to block all ports in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
  • The region handles about 20% of global oil supply; both U.S. and Iran are imposing maritime lockdowns.
• Central Command's Guidelines for Vessels

  • Any unauthorized vessel risks "interception, diversion and capture," but neutral and humanitarian shipments will continue with inspection.

  • U.S. crude oil prices surge past $103 a barrel.

    Notable Quote:

    "...neutral transit through the strait to or from non Iranian destinations will not be impeded, along with humanitarian shipments subject to inspection."
    (Lisa Brady, 00:45)

    Timestamps:

    • Strait of Hormuz blockade: 00:02 – 00:45
    • Oil price impact: 00:45

2. California Governor’s Race Scandal

• Eric Swalwell Drops Out Amid Misconduct Allegations

  • Faces calls to resign due to multiple sexual misconduct allegations.

  • Steve Hilton (Republican candidate) criticized Swalwell on FOX:

    Notable Quote:

    "These stories about Swalwell...they've been out there for as long as he's been in the race...It's the arrogance of these career politicians. They think they can get away with anything."
    (Steve Hilton, 01:31)

  • Swalwell apologizes for “mistakes in judgment” but calls accusations false.

  • Manhattan DA’s office confirms investigation into some claims.

    Timestamps:

    • Steve Hilton commentary: 01:31 – 01:46
    • Swalwell’s apology/statement: 01:46

3. Pope Leo Responds to U.S.-Iran Conflict Criticism

• Pope Defends Peace Advocacy Despite U.S. Criticism

  • Pope Leo addresses his ongoing calls for peace in the Iran conflict:

    "Blessed are the peacemakers...I will continue to speak out loud against war looking to promote peace."
    (Pope Leo, 03:06 – 03:12)

  • Reaction follows President Trump’s online accusation that the Pope is “catering to the radical left” and “weak on crime.” The Pope’s stance: never advocated for Iran to possess nuclear weapons.

  • Pope continues his advocacy as he departs on a 10-day African tour.

    Timestamps:

    • Papal statement and context: 03:01 – 03:12

4. Roblox Implements New Child Safety Features

• Major Safety Expansion Announced

  • Roblox CEO Dave Buzzucki outlines new safety systems for youth:

    "Roblox is expanding its child safety system starting in June...Everyone on our platform, once they age check, will put them in the appropriate account..."
    (Dave Buzzucki, 03:49 – 04:12)

  • New categories: “Roblox Kids” for youngest users, “Roblox Select” for ages 9–15, and an adult tier. Age checks via facial analysis.

  • Updates are proactively ahead of new laws.

    Timestamps:

    • Roblox segment: 03:44 – 04:27

5. Britney Spears News Update

• Britney Spears Enters Treatment After DUI Arrest

  • Spears checks into rehab following arrest; court date scheduled for May 4.

  • California Highway Patrol reports signs of impairment but chemical tests pending.

    Timestamps:

    • Britney Spears update: 04:27 – 04:47

Memorable Quotes

• President Trump's Warning:

  "...any Iranian ship, including small, fast attack vessels, will be immediately eliminated if they come near a U.S. blockade." (Narrator, 00:13)

• Steve Hilton on Eric Swalwell:

  "...It's the arrogance of these career politicians. They think they can get away with anything." (Steve Hilton, 01:31)

• Pope Leo on War:

  "Blessed are the peacemakers...I will continue to speak out loud against war looking to promote peace." (Pope Leo, 03:06 – 03:12)

• Dave Buzzucki (Roblox):

  "Roblox is expanding its child safety system starting in June...we're doing this well in advance of any requirements by law..." (Dave Buzzucki, 03:49)

Market Update and Closing

• Stocks & Economy:
  • Oil surges past $103/barrel as tensions mount.
  • Dow Jones down 236 points at the time of broadcast.

This episode delivers rapid-fire coverage of global flashpoints, American political scandal, cultural moments, and tech policy—all with input from newsmakers and direct quotes, ensuring listeners stay fully informed.