Fox News Hourly Update: June 26, 2025
The latest episode of the Fox News Hourly Update, hosted by Fox News Radio, delves into several pivotal issues ranging from international conflicts to domestic policies and noteworthy economic developments. This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented during the broadcast.
1. U.S. Airstrikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites
The episode opens with a significant focus on the Trump administration's stance regarding recent military actions against Iranian nuclear facilities.
-
Tom Ragati introduces the topic, stating, “They don't think Iran moved the uranium. I'm Tom Ragati, FOX News. There's no indication enriched uranium was moved before US Bombs hit Iranian nuclear sites, at least according to the Trump administration” (00:02).
-
Jared Halpern reports that U.S. intelligence agencies had been monitoring three Iranian nuclear sites closely in the lead-up to the strike: “Fox's Jared Halpern reports U.S. intelligence agencies were closely watching three Iranian nuclear sites in the days and weeks before Saturday night's attacks on those facilities” (00:12).
-
Jennifer Griffin adds, “There was no indication to the United States that any of that enriched uranium was moved prior to the strike” (00:22), reinforcing the administration’s belief that the uranium remained stationary.
-
The discussion shifts to diplomatic efforts, with Caroline Levitt, White House Press Secretary, emphasizing ongoing negotiations: “This administration is always focused on diplomacy and peace and we want to ensure we can get to a place where Iran agrees to a non enrichment civil nuclear program” (00:33).
-
Jared Halpern further elaborates on the diplomatic side, mentioning Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s role in leading these efforts, though noting that direct talks have yet to be announced (00:43).
-
In a detailed briefing from the Pentagon, General Dan Kane provides an in-depth account of the airstrikes: “There were a lot of new details provided by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Dan Kane, who had exquisite details of what they saw at Fordo. He described how the first bunker buster was dropped to remove that concrete and the next five were timed with fuses to enter one after another and penetrate deep underground through the shafts” (01:04). Kane explains that the overpressure from the strikes likely destroyed existing centrifuges. He also addresses speculations about the movement of highly enriched uranium, countering President Trump’s assertion: “President Trump says the uranium was too heavy and would have taken too long to move” (01:40).
2. Market Surge Reflects Economic Optimism
Transitioning to economic news, the episode highlights a robust performance in the U.S. stock markets.
- Tom Ragati announces substantial gains: “Big gains on Wall street today. The Dow rose 404 points while the Nasdaq was up 194, closing above 20,000. The S&P 500 gained 48” (01:40). This surge signifies investor confidence and positive market sentiment.
3. Legal Challenges in Deportation Processes
The program then addresses a complex legal case involving immigration and deportation procedures.
-
Tom Ragati introduces the story of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadorian national who was mistakenly deported: “A Salvadorian national who was mistakenly deported to his native country earlier this year remains in custody in Tennessee and could be deported again” (02:31).
-
Ryan Schmelz provides comprehensive coverage, explaining that a federal judge in Nashville ruled for Garcia’s release while awaiting trial but maintained his custody to prevent potential deportation again: “A federal judge in Nashville ruled Kilmar Abrego Garcia should be released from jail while he waits for his trial, but she's keeping him in custody, concerned he may get deported again” (02:41).
-
The prosecution’s stance is clear, yet immediate deportation plans are not underway. Additionally, concerns about Garcia facing violence in El Salvador were previously acknowledged, leading to his initial allowance to stay in the U.S.: “An immigration judge ruled back in 2019 that Abrego Garcia may face violence from gangs in El Salvador and he was allowed to stay in the U.S” (02:41).
-
The Trump administration contends that Garcia’s deportation was an error and is now pursuing human trafficking charges against him, to which he has pleaded not guilty (02:41).
4. Legislative Hurdles and International Relations
The update continues with insights into domestic legislative challenges and international diplomatic relations.
-
Tom Ragati reports on legislative setbacks as the Senate parliamentarian advises against a Medicaid provider tax overhaul, a key component of President Trump’s tax cut and spending bill: “the Senate parliamentarian has advised that a Medicaid provider tax overhaul central to President Trump's tax cut and spending bill doesn't adhere to procedural rules” (03:19). This poses a significant obstacle for Republicans aiming to finalize the “big beautiful bill” within the week.
-
In international news, Tom Ragati covers Spain’s unique position within NATO: “Spain's prime minister is defending his decision to be the only NATO member not to agree to increase defense spending during the NATO summit at the Hague” (03:19). Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez responds to criticism by President Trump by highlighting that trade policies are determined by the European Commission, not solely by Spain (03:19).
5. Honoring World War II Veterans
Concluding the episode on a celebratory note, the program honors the valor and service of World War II veterans.
-
Ryan Schmelz reports on Congress’s tribute to veterans: “Veterans Joseph Drake and John Wardell accepting the Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of all of their fellow World War II Rangers” (03:54).
-
Jennifer Griffin emphasizes the leadership of the Rangers: “Truly, Rangers do lead the way” (04:01).
-
Joni Ernst, Iowa senator and combat veteran, lauds the service members, while House Speaker Mike Johnson remarks that the honor was long overdue. The ceremony included leaders from both the House and Senate, as well as members of the Trump administration. The Congressional Gold Medal will be donated to the Smithsonian Institution on Capitol Hill (04:04).
Closing Remarks
The episode wraps up with a reminder of Fox News Radio’s continued coverage and commitment to delivering up-to-the-minute news.
- Tom Ragati signs off by reiterating the breadth of topics covered: “America's listening to Fox” (01:40).
This comprehensive summary provides a clear overview of the Fox News Hourly Update episode, capturing the essence of each discussion point with precise quotes and accurate timestamps for reference.
