Fox News Hourly Update – 4 AM ET, July 7, 2025
The latest episode of the Fox News Hourly Update delivered comprehensive coverage of pressing national and international issues, with a strong focus on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Texas, the administration's trade policies, Middle East diplomacy, and community efforts to assist pets affected by recent natural disasters. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed.
1. Devastating Flooding in Central Texas: Emergency Response and Ongoing Challenges
Host Introduction and Initial Report
Sue Guzman opened the broadcast at [00:02] with alarming news about the severe rainfall impacting Texas:
"More life-threatening rainfall ahead for Texas. It is a race against the clock to find those missing following last week's flash flooding in Central Texas," Guzman reported.
Detailed Coverage by Marianne Rafferty
Marianne Rafferty provided an in-depth update at [00:15], outlining the dire situation:
"Search and rescue crews are battling rising waters as they continue their search for victims of last week's devastating flash flooding in Central Texas. With more rain falling, the sheriff's department is warning the already swollen Guadalupe River could rise another 1 to 2 feet."
She highlighted the tragic toll of the floods, citing at least 82 fatalities across multiple counties, with numbers expected to rise. Rafferty emphasized the plight of families, mentioning that dozens remain missing, including at least 10 children and a counselor from an all-girls camp in Kerr County. The Guadalupe River's dramatic rise—nearly 30 feet in under an hour—during torrential rains underscored the severity of the disaster. Governor [Name] committed to unwavering search and rescue efforts, with over 850 people already rescued.
Government Response and Support
Sue Guzman continued at [00:58], noting the White House's active engagement with Texas officials:
"White House is in constant contact with state and local leaders in Texas as lawmakers on Capitol Hill pledge support for those efforts."
Statements from Political Leaders
Lucas Tomlinson expanded on the situation at [01:05], featuring House Speaker Mike Johnson’s remarks from Fox News Sunday:
Mike Johnson: "We'll handle supplemental funding requests as they come in but right now they're still trying to do rescue and recovery and our hearts go out to all of them."
President Trump’s declaration of the area as a major disaster relief zone was detailed at [01:17], with Tomlinson quoting the president's statement posted on Truth Social:
"I just signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, Texas to ensure that our brave first responders immediately have the resources they need. These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy with many lives lost and many still missing. God bless the families and God bless Texas."
Community Support and Donations
At [01:45], Guzman informed listeners about Fox Corporation’s contribution to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund:
"Fox Corporation has made a donation to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country's Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. You can help by visiting Go Fox.TXFloodRelief America is listening to FOX News."
2. Administration’s Trade Policies and Tariff Negotiations
President Trump's Diplomatic Efforts
Transitioning to international affairs, Dariel Obinger reported at [03:13] on President Trump's proactive stance regarding trade negotiations:
"President Trump on Air Force One says he's reaching out to U.S. trading partners."
Trump addressed the complexity of dealing with numerous countries:
Donald Trump [03:18]: "You have hundreds of countries. You know you have over 200 countries and you can't sit down with 200 countries. I think the letters are better."
Pressure on Trading Partners
Obinger explained that these communications might particularly target European Union members, whom Trump criticized for not paying their "fair share" in tariffs. The administration is urging these nations to finalize new trade deals before a looming deadline:
Trump [03:38]: "I think we'll have most countries done by July 9th."
An unnamed speaker affirmed the urgency, leading Obinger to reveal that the letters warn of the potential imposition of higher tariffs as soon as August 1st. However, Trump hinted at flexibility:
"In true Trump fashion, he's also hinting he could extend the time for deal-making."
Official Statements and Logistics
Guzman recapped the administration’s actions at [03:55]:
"The president posting on Truth Social. The letters will be delivered at noon Eastern. Israel's prime minister returns to Washington as the Trump administration tries to clinch a ceasefire deal in Gaza."
3. Middle East Ceasefire Negotiations
High-Level Diplomatic Meetings
Jared Halpern provided insight at [04:06] into burgeoning diplomatic efforts aimed at securing peace in the Middle East:
For the first time since significant conflicts involving U.S. airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities and a two-week war between Israel and Iran, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with President Trump. This historic meeting is anticipated to take place at the White House, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israeli relations.
Terms of the Ceasefire
The proposed ceasefire negotiations involve complex and sensitive terms:
Halpern explained that the deal aims for a 60-day cessation of hostilities in Gaza. However, this peace offer poses significant demands from both sides. Israeli officials assert that Hamas must agree to release at least 10 living hostages in exchange for 18 deceased hostages' bodies. Current assessments indicate that around 20 hostages remain alive in Gaza, making this a critical component of the negotiation process.
Halpern concluded:
"President Trump and US negotiators are hopeful they can secure a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, a deal that offends officials say would require Hamas to release at least 10 living hostages in the bodies of 18 dead hostages."
4. Rescue Efforts for Pets Amidst Texas Flooding
Animal Rescue Initiatives
Returning to the Texas floods, Sue Guzman addressed the efforts to rescue pets caught in the disaster zones at [04:39]:
Dozens of animals have been rescued during the severe flooding, but in many cases, the owners' fates remain uncertain.
Call for Public Assistance
Guzman highlighted the calls for community support from animal rescue organizations:
- Austin Pets Alive in Kerr County is requesting public help for the rescued dogs and cats.
- Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is seeking emergency dog and cat fosters to provide temporary homes for the animals.
She provided information on how listeners could contribute:
"Donations can be made or you can find out more information at austinpetsalive.org."
Conclusion
The Fox News Hourly Update delivered critical updates on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Texas, emphasizing the severity of the floods and the extensive rescue operations underway. The administration's active role in both domestic disaster relief and international trade negotiations underscores the multifaceted challenges faced by the nation. Additionally, high-stakes diplomatic efforts in the Middle East signal potential shifts in regional stability. Community engagement, particularly in supporting affected pets, highlights the compassionate response to the disaster. Listeners were encouraged to stay informed and participate in relief efforts, reflecting Fox News Radio's commitment to comprehensive news coverage.