Fox News Hourly Update - 2PM ET 07/26/2025

Release Date: July 26, 2025

The latest episode of the Fox News Hourly Update, hosted by Jack Callaghan, delivers an in-depth analysis of current events both domestically and internationally. This summary highlights the key topics discussed, featuring pertinent quotes and timestamps to provide a comprehensive overview for those who haven’t tuned in.

1. US-EU Trade Negotiations

Reporters: Jack Callaghan & Jackie Heinrich

The episode begins with a focus on the President’s ongoing trade discussions with the European Union, taking place in Edinburgh, Scotland.

• President's Outlook: As he departed the White House, the President expressed uncertainty about reaching a trade agreement with the EU, estimating the likelihood at "about 50/50 or maybe less" ([00:14] Jackie Heinrich). However, he remains cautiously optimistic, drawing parallels to previous negotiations with Japan where "they kept making concessions and they were able to work something out" ([00:14] Jackie Heinrich).

• Potential Tariffs: The President announced the possibility of imposing a 30% tariff on EU imports starting August 1st if no deal is reached ([00:14] Jackie Heinrich). In response, the EU has indicated readiness to retaliate with similar tariffs on over $100 billion worth of US goods, including bourbon, soybeans, and airplanes.

• Upcoming Talks: A crucial meeting is scheduled for tomorrow between the President and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, to negotiate the terms further ([00:52] Jack Callaghan).

2. Legal Proceedings Involving Ghislaine Maxwell

Reporters: Jack Callaghan, David Marcus, & Kristin Goodwin

The update delves into the legal struggles surrounding Ghislaine Maxwell, focusing on her recent court appearances and the defense’s stance.

• Attorney’s Statement: Maxwell's attorney, David Marcus, highlighted perceived injustices, stating, "She has been treated unfairly for the past five years. She didn't get a fair trial" ([01:12] David Marcus). He also mentioned ongoing appeals to the Supreme Court, with a reply to the cert petition expected on Monday ([01:12] David Marcus).

• Presidential Pardon Speculation: Marcus suggested that Maxwell might be seeking a presidential pardon or commutation. When questioned, President Trump responded, "It's something I have not thought about" ([01:25] David Marcus; [01:34] Kristin Goodwin).

• Current Status: Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence in Tallahassee for her role in aiding Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities, including trafficking and abusing underage girls ([01:36] David Marcus).

3. Trump Administration’s Legal Setbacks on Sanctuary Policies

Reporter: Carmen Roberts

The episode covers a significant court decision unfavorable to the Trump administration’s initiatives against sanctuary cities.

• Court Decision: A federal judge dismissed the Trump administration's lawsuit against Illinois and Chicago, ruling that the government "lacked standing to override local laws" that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement ([02:37] Carmen Roberts).

• Broader Implications: The administration is extending its legal efforts by suing New York City over similar sanctuary policies, although previous attempts have faced hurdles ([02:32] Jack Callaghan; [02:37] Carmen Roberts).

4. FAA Investigation into Southwest Airlines Incident

Reporter: Madeline Rivera

An alarming incident involving a Southwest Airlines flight prompted an FAA investigation, raising concerns about aviation safety.

• Incident Overview: Shortly after takeoff from Burbank Airport, a Southwest flight reported encountering another aircraft, leading the pilot to drop altitude from approximately 14,000 feet to 13,500 feet within a minute, causing passenger distress ([03:17] Madeline Rivera).

• Aircraft Involved: Data suggests a Hawker Hunter jet, a British fighter plane, was in close proximity, prompting the evasive maneuver ([03:17] Madeline Rivera).

• Airline Response: A Southwest spokesperson clarified that the crew was responding to "two traffic alerts that required them to climb and descend" ([03:17] Madeline Rivera).

• Aftermath: The aircraft landed safely in Las Vegas, with two flight attendants treated for minor injuries ([03:53] Jack Callaghan).

5. Israel-Hamas Conflict Updates

Host: Jack Callaghan

The update provides the latest on the tense situation between Israel and Hamas, highlighting recent violence and stalled peace talks.

• Casualties Reported: Israeli airstrikes and gunfire resulted in at least 25 deaths overnight, as reported by Palestinian health officials and the local ambulance service under Hamas control ([03:53] Jack Callaghan).

• Israeli Military Action: The Israeli army stated that it targeted one location in response to a "threat cease fire" ([03:53] Jack Callaghan).

• Stalled Negotiations: Talks between Israel and Hamas remain at a standstill, exacerbated by the US and Israel recalling their negotiating teams from key crossings on Thursday ([03:53] Jack Callaghan).

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Conclusion

This episode of the Fox News Hourly Update comprehensively covers significant developments in international trade negotiations, high-profile legal cases, governmental legal challenges, aviation safety incidents, and ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts. The inclusion of direct quotes and precise timestamps ensures that listeners can reference specific segments for more detailed information.