Fox News Hourly Update – 12PM ET, July 20, 2025
Hosted by Jack Callahan | Released on July 20, 2025
1. President Trump's Second Term and the Epstein Controversy
Jack Callahan opens the newscast by addressing ongoing criticisms of President Trump’s administration, particularly regarding the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Lucas Tomlinson, reporting from the White House, states:
“I have asked the Justice Department to release all grand jury testimony with respect to Jeffrey Epstein, subject only to court approval. With that being said, and even if the court gave its full and unwavering approval, nothing will be good enough for the troublemakers and radical left lunatics making the request. It will always be more, more, more.”
[00:09]
Despite achieving another political victory, President Trump faces persistent detractors. Epstein was indicted on sex trafficking charges in July 2019 and died by suicide a month later while awaiting trial. Callahan underscores the sustained scrutiny Trump faces even months into his second term.
2. Ceasefire in Southern Syria Amid Militia Feuds
Dre Yingst, reporting from Tel Aviv, provides an update on the fragile ceasefire in southern Syria aimed at quelling ongoing conflicts between rival militias.
A ceasefire has been declared in Sweda Province as Bedouin tribes withdraw from the area. However, new footage indicates continued street clashes on the city's outskirts over the weekend. US Special Envoy Tom Barak has appealed to all factions to disarm, yet violence persists.
Syrian President Ahmed El Shara emphasizes the state's commitment to protecting minorities:
“The Syrian state is committed to protecting all minorities and sect in the country and is proceeding to hold all violators accountable from any party.”
[01:28]
Last week, hundreds of Israeli Druze entered southern Syria to support their fight against the dominant Bedouin tribes. The Israeli military subsequently called for their withdrawal and secured the border to prevent further escalation.
Jack Callahan adds:
“UN estimates more than 87,000 people have been displaced since earlier this month.”
[01:45]
3. Accusations of Political Conspiracy: Tulsi Gabbard’s Claims
Transitioning to domestic affairs, Tulsi Gabbard alleges a coordinated effort by the Obama administration to undermine Donald Trump's initial presidential campaign. She claims to have declassified documents that suggest the Russia collusion investigation was orchestrated with foreknowledge.
Callahan reports:
“Tulsi Gabbard is calling what she says was a coordinated effort by the Obama administration to scuttle Donald Trump's first presidential campaign. She's declassified documents that says she proves the Russia collusion investigation was a hoax and the Obama administration knew it.”
[02:26]
Gabbard points to a December 9, 2016, meeting involving former DNI James Clapper, John Brennan, and former National Security Adviser Susan Rice. Post-meeting, Clapper’s executive assistant allegedly directed intelligence leaders to craft a new assessment on Russia’s capacity to influence the 2016 election.
James Clapper responds:
“Scabbard says declassified documents show in the days leading up to the November 26 election intelligence officials consistently stated Russia is probably not trying nor have the capability to influence the election by using cyber means. Their tune, she says, changed after the election.”
[03:26]
Gabbard intends to forward these documents to the Justice Department for potential prosecution. Democrats have dismissed her allegations as unfounded, referencing a 2020 Senate report that acknowledged Russia's attempts to influence Trump's campaign through social media but found no evidence of vote tampering or machine interference.
4. Tragic Boat Capsizing in Vietnam
A sudden thunderstorm led to the capsizing of a tour boat on a Vietnamese bay, resulting in the deaths of 37 individuals as reported by state media. Five remain missing. Vietnamese rescuers carried out courageous efforts, saving 11 people, including a 14-year-old boy who survived for four hours in an air pocket within the overturned hull.
5. Passing of Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Khalid al Saud
Jack Callahan reports the death of Prince Alwaleed bin Khalid al Saud, a Saudi prince who had been in a coma for over two decades following a car accident in London in 2005. Prince Alwaleed passed away at the age of 36, having endured severe brain and internal injuries since the accident at age 15.
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This summary captures the key discussions and insights from the Fox News Hourly Update episode aired on July 20, 2025, providing a comprehensive overview for those who did not listen to the original broadcast.