Fox News Hourly Update — 7PM ET 12/20/2025 Newscast

Date: December 20, 2025
Host: FOX News Podcasts

Overview

This episode covers major current events including the release of Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein, U.S. airstrikes against ISIS in Syria following the deaths of American personnel, new security and hate speech laws in Australia after a deadly Hanukkah attack, updates on the Brown University and MIT professor murder cases, and U.S. actions against Venezuela. The cast offers brisk news reporting, direct quotes from officials, and concise summaries of developments across the globe.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Justice Department Releases Epstein Files

• Segment [00:02–00:39]

  • The DOJ released some files related to Jeffrey Epstein, containing redacted documents and photos of various public figures, but without context.
  • Noteworthy redaction: “masseuses” list with 254 names blacked out.
  • Legal experts stress that inclusion in files does not denote criminal involvement.
  • DOJ faces bipartisan criticism for missing the file-release deadline but promises more disclosures by year-end.

  “Just because a person’s in the file doesn’t mean they’re implicated in a crime.” — Fox’s Gently Painter [00:30]

2. U.S. Precision Strikes Against ISIS in Syria

• Segment [00:39–01:43]

  • The U.S. military, responding to the killing of three American personnel, launched “Operation Hawkeye Strike,” targeting over 70 ISIS locations in Syria.
  • The operation was named after two National Guard soldiers from Iowa and an American interpreter killed in the prior week.
  • President Trump addressed the strikes at a rally, emphasizing success and the principle of “peace through strength.”

  “I ordered a massive strike on the terrorists that killed our three great patriots last week... It was very successful. It was precision. We hit every site flawlessly and we are restoring peace through strength.” — President Trump [01:17]

  • All U.S. personnel returned safely. No details on ISIS casualties were given.

3. Australia’s Response to Hanukkah Celebration Attack

• Segment [02:58–03:44]

  • After a deadly attack at Bondi Beach killed 15, Australia plans to tighten laws on hate speech and demonstrations.
  • Upcoming bans may include phrases like “globalize the intifada,” hate symbols, and certain flags (Hamas, Nazi party).
  • A large-scale, voluntary firearms buyback program is being debated.
  • Ahmad Al Ahmad, hailed as a hero for his actions during the attack, received a substantial reward for bravery.

  “Lawmakers here say they’re going to outlaw the phrase ‘globalize the intifada,’ which means for many trying to legitimize violent attacks against Jews.” — Steve Harrigan [03:18]

4. Update on Brown University and MIT Professor Murders

• Segment [03:44–04:33]

  • Authorities have matched two guns linked to shootings at Brown University and MIT.
  • Breakthrough: a homeless man’s Reddit post helped direct police to the suspect.
  • The suspect, Claudio Neves Valente, is a Portuguese national and former Brown PhD physics student. No motive is known.

  “Police crediting a homeless man for posting on Reddit, for really cracking this case wide open after a six day manhunt.” — Brooke Taylor [04:14]

5. Venezuela: U.S. Stops Vessel and Pressure on Maduro

• Segment [04:33–04:55]
  • U.S. forces intercepted a vessel off Venezuela’s coast for a second time in two weeks—part of reinforced pressure on President Nicolás Maduro.
  • The U.S. campaign includes a naval blockade initiative.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Legal Experts Caution Public over Epstein Releases:

  • “Just because a person’s in the file doesn’t mean they’re implicated in a crime.”
    — Fox’s Gently Painter [00:30]

• President Trump on U.S. Response to ISIS:

  • “We are restoring peace through strength. We’re all over the world.”
    — President Trump [01:32]

• Australia Moves to Outlaw Violent Rhetoric:

  • “Lawmakers here say they’re going to outlaw the phrase ‘globalize the intifada,’ which means for many trying to legitimize violent attacks against Jews.”
    — Steve Harrigan [03:18]

• Crowdsourced Crime-Solving:

  • “Police crediting a homeless man for posting on Reddit, for really cracking this case wide open after a six day manhunt.”
    — Brooke Taylor [04:14]

Important Segment Timestamps

• 00:02–00:39 — Jeffrey Epstein DOJ file release details and reactions
• 00:39–01:43 — U.S. airstrikes on ISIS; President Trump speaks
• 02:58–03:44 — Australia’s new laws after Bondi Beach attack
• 03:44–04:33 — Brown and MIT murder suspect identified
• 04:33–04:55 — U.S.-Venezuela confrontation update

Conclusion

This Fox News Hourly Update delivers concise coverage of top international and domestic news developments from government document releases, military operations, and legislative actions abroad, to law enforcement breakthroughs. The episode balances breaking news urgency with key quotes and expert analysis, keeping listeners informed on significant events shaping the closing days of 2025.