Fox News Hourly Update – 3AM ET 02/21/2026 Newscast

Main Theme:
This newscast delivers rapid updates on the Supreme Court’s rejection of President Trump’s tariffs, rising U.S.-Iran tensions, Olympic hockey news, the impact of tariffs on small businesses, and a U.S. military operation targeting narcotics trafficking.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Global Tariffs

• [00:03] Chris DiMaio opens the newscast with top news: The Supreme Court has struck down President Trump’s use of global tariffs, stating the administration overstepped its legal authority.
• [00:14] The court’s 6-3 decision sparked open criticism from President Trump, who expressed anger towards the justices, highlighting dissent even from his own nominees.
  • Trump (00:19): “I'm ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what's right for our country.”
• [00:27] At a press conference, Trump accused the court of foreign influence and specifically called out Justices Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett.
  • Trump (00:39): “I think it's an embarrassment to their families. You want to know the truth? The two of them?”
• [00:43] Despite the court’s ruling, President Trump vows to seek alternative means, including plans for a temporary global 10% tariff.
  • Jared Halpern reporting.

2. U.S. Escalation in Middle East & Iran Tensions

• [00:55] Chris DiMaio transitions to increasing military buildup in the Middle East amid threats of war with Iran.
• [01:00] Jennifer Griffin reports:
  • The president is considering a limited strike on Iran; Iran threatens retaliation with missiles against U.S. bases.
  • Massive U.S. military deployment: Over 120 warplanes, including F-15s, F-35s, AWACS, KC-135 refuelers, and a carrier strike group through the Strait of Gibraltar.
  • The magnitude of preparations suggests military observers see conflict as imminent.
    • Griffin (01:00): “It is not a question of if, but when.”
• [01:46] President gives Iran a 10 to 15-day ultimatum for a new nuclear deal; warns of unspecified consequences if Tehran doesn’t comply.

3. Olympic Hockey Showdown: USA vs. Canada

• [02:40] Sports update from Joe Morgan: On Sunday, Team USA will play Canada for the Olympic gold in men’s hockey.
  • [02:47] USA defeated Slovakia 6–2, securing victory with a decisive second period.
  • Canada vs. Finland: Canada narrowly triumphed 3–2, with Nathan McKinnon scoring the game-winner in the final minute.
  • Joe Morgan (03:10): “The Americans haven't won gold since the Miracle on Ice team in 1980.”

4. Tariffs’ Impact on Small Business and Local Economy

• [03:25] Chris DiMaio spotlights small business reactions—Jet City Device Repair owner Savage Bhopal in Washington details immediate effects and relief after the Supreme Court decision.
  • Savage Bhopal (03:42): “We had to scramble. It was constant meetings with our partners overseas...At least there's one pressure point is relieved right if this goes in the right direction and continues to improve.”
• [03:59] Washington Governor Ferguson’s statement, via Alejandro Guzman, underscores the broad economic damage tariffs caused—decreased port traffic, agricultural decline, and increased business costs.

5. U.S. Military Strike Against Narco-Trafficking Vessel

• [04:15] Chris DiMaio closes with news of a U.S. military operation—strike on a drug trafficking vessel in the eastern Pacific, resulting in three deaths. The U.S. Southern Command states the vessel was on known narco-trafficking routes.

Notable Quotes & Moments

• President Trump on SCOTUS Tariff Ruling

  • “I'm ashamed of certain members of the court, absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what's right for our country.” (00:19)
  • “I think it's an embarrassment to their families. You want to know the truth? The two of them?” (00:39)

• Jennifer Griffin on Middle East Buildup

  • “The amount of military hardware ... signals to most military observers that it is not a question of if, but when.” (01:00)

• Savage Bhopal on Tariffs’ Business Impact

  • “At least there's one pressure point is relieved right if this goes in the right direction and continues to improve.” (03:52)

• Joe Morgan on Hockey Finals History

  • “The Americans haven't won gold since the Miracle on ice team in 1980.” (03:10)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:03] — Supreme Court rules against Trump’s tariffs
• [00:19]/[00:39] — Trump rebukes Supreme Court, criticizes his own nominees
• [00:55] — U.S. increases military presence in Middle East
• [01:00] — Pentagon moving military assets; analysis by Jennifer Griffin
• [01:46] — U.S. gives Iran ultimatum for new nuclear deal
• [02:40] — Olympic hockey: USA vs. Canada preview
• [03:25] — Small business reaction to tariff ruling
• [04:15] — U.S. military strike on narco-trafficking vessel

Overall Tone & Context

The update maintains Fox News’ brisk, urgent style, covering high-stakes topics with soundbites from principal actors and field correspondents. The focus is on political division, international tension, athletic competition, economic relief, and military action—keeping listeners briefed on rapidly evolving events.