Evening Wire: Iran Cracks Down & Diddy’s Trial Winds Down | 6.26.25

Summary

Evening Wire: Iran Cracks Down & Diddy's Trial Winds Down | 06.26.25

Hosts: John Bickley (Executive Editor) and Georgia Howe
Date Released: June 26, 2025

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1. Iran's Harsh Crackdown Post-Conflict

Timestamp: [00:18]

Georgia Howe opens the episode by detailing Iran's severe repression following a brief 12-day war with Israel. The regime has detained over 700 individuals on political and security-related charges, with many accused of ties to Israel. State media reports indicate that three alleged Israeli agents have been executed, with more awaiting the same fate. The streets of Tehran are heavily policed, and beneath the surface, there's a growing undercurrent of public dissent against the government's actions.

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2. Supreme Leader Khamenei's Public Assertion vs. Reality

Timestamp: [00:46] - [01:59]

John Bickley transitions to the recent appearance of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, who emerged briefly from hiding to declare victory despite significant setbacks. Cabot Phillips elaborates on Khamenei's claims of delivering a "hand slap to America's face" ([01:01]). However, satellite imagery contradicts this narrative, showing extensive damage to Iran's nuclear facilities. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirms that the nuclear program has been set back by years due to the destruction.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticizes media coverage, with Tim Rice highlighting skepticism from intelligence sources about the extent of the damage. Khamenei's assertions are further challenged by President Trump, who labels the reports as "fake" on Truth Social ([01:59]).

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3. U.S. Demands for Iran's Uranium Surrender

Timestamp: [02:08]

Georgia Howe reports that the Trump administration has issued ultimatums to Iran, demanding the surrender of its remaining enriched uranium. The International Atomic Energy Agency recently confirmed that Iran has stockpiled over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, with potential for creating multiple nuclear bombs if enriched to 90%. An Israeli news outlet reveals that the U.S. plans to present Iran with three baseline demands:

1. Reinstating a total ban on uranium enrichment on Iranian soil.
2. Removal of all highly enriched uranium already stockpiled.
3. Limitations on future missile production.

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4. Senate Stalemate on Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill"

Timestamp: [02:47] - [03:50]

John Bickley discusses the obstacles facing President Trump's ambitious legislative proposal. Despite Republicans holding a slim 53-47 Senate majority, the Senate parliamentarian has ruled the bill ineligible for budget reconciliation due to Republican cuts to Medicaid ([02:47]). This decision prevents the bill from bypassing the 60-vote threshold required to end a filibuster.

Senator Roger Marshall criticizes the process, stating, "I think it's wrong to have one person being able to do all that," and advocates for term limits to restrict such legislative overreach ([03:20]).

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5. Supreme Court Ruling on Medicaid Funding to Planned Parenthood

Timestamp: [03:50] - [04:25]

Georgia Howe segues into a landmark Supreme Court decision. Daily Wire reporter Mairead Elordi explains that the Court, in a 6-3 ruling authored by Justice Neil Gorsuch, determined that states can block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood ([04:00]). The decision emphasizes states' authority to decide which healthcare providers qualify for Medicaid participation, potentially enabling other states to similarly exclude Planned Parenthood from their Medicaid programs.

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6. Eric Adams Announces Reelection Bid Amid Political Shifts

Timestamp: [04:25] - [05:15]

John Bickley covers New York City Mayor Eric Adams' announcement to seek reelection as an independent, a significant shift following Democratic Socialist Zoran Mamdani's unexpected primary victory. Despite being elected as a Democrat in 2021, Adams has faced low approval ratings and has recently dropped federal corruption charges.

During his announcement, Adams stated, "They try to distract me... So you can call me all the names you want, but I'm going to answer to only one. Mayor Adams" ([04:46]).

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7. The Ongoing Saga of Kilmar Abrego Garcia

Timestamp: [05:15] - [06:09]

John Bickley shifts focus to the legal troubles of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Deputy Managing Editor Tim Rice reports that Garcia's lawyers have filed an emergency motion to prevent his deportation and maintain his out-of-federal-custody status ([05:22]). The motion argues for Garcia's return to Maryland post-release in Tennessee to face federal charges related to human smuggling.

Attorney General Pam Bondi described Garcia's actions as part of a long-term alien smuggling ring, stating, "They found this was his full time job, not a contractor. He was a smuggler of humans and children and women" ([05:46]).

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8. Trump Administration Targets Mexican Banks for Cartel Money Laundering

Timestamp: [06:09] - [06:56]

Georgia Howe reports on the Trump administration's new restrictions targeting three Mexican banks—C Banco, Intercam, and Vector—accused of laundering funds for fentanyl-trafficking cartels ([06:18]). Daily Wire reporter Spencer Lindquist explains that the Treasury Department's move prohibits American financial institutions from engaging in certain transactions with these banks, marking a strategic effort to disrupt cartel financing. These restrictions are the first to be enforced under new laws aimed at combating fentanyl-related money laundering.

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9. High-Profile Trial: Sean "Diddy" Combs Faces Closing Arguments

Timestamp: [07:28] - [07:59]

John Bickley updates listeners on the ongoing trial of rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs, who stands charged with sex trafficking and racketeering. The trial has drawn significant media attention due to graphic details about Combs' so-called "freak off" parties. While prosecutors have dropped charges of attempted arson and kidnapping, they assert that even if only one instance of coercion is proven, Combs is guilty of sex trafficking. The case continues to unfold as closing arguments commence ([07:28]).

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10. RFK Jr.'s Vaccine Panel Approves New Infant Shot

Timestamp: [07:59] - [08:40]

Georgia Howe discusses recent developments from RFK Jr.'s vaccine panel. Daily Wire reporter Amanda Presto Giacomo reports that a CDC vaccine panel has approved Merck's new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) ([08:07]). The panel also voted to include this vaccine in the government's recommended childhood immunizations, allowing its launch ahead of the RSV season. This decision follows the complete replacement of the panel's 17 members by RFK Jr., raising concerns among some about potential biases, though only two of seven members opposed the vaccine.

In related news, RFK Jr. celebrates compliance from major companies Nestlé and Conagra, which have pledged to remove synthetic dyes from their products within two years. This aligns with the "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) initiative, as more states implement laws reducing synthetic dye usage in foods ([08:40]).

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11. Gas Prices Drop to Lowest Levels Since 2021

Timestamp: [09:02] - [09:35]

John Bickley reports a welcome development for consumers: gas prices have fallen to an average of $3.20 per gallon, the lowest since 2021 ([09:02]). Press Secretary Caroline Levitt attributes this decline to decreased oil prices, which had stabilized even before the recent conflict with Israel. Mairead Elordi highlights President Trump's continued efforts to unleash American energy resources, enhancing national security and ensuring affordable, reliable energy for the public ([09:15], [09:35]).

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12. Microsoft Faces Lawsuit Over AI Training Practices

Timestamp: [09:35] - [10:12]

Georgia Howe covers a significant legal challenge for Microsoft, which is being sued by multiple authors alleging that the tech giant unlawfully used their books to train its AI model, Megatron ([09:35]). The lawsuit follows a California ruling that allowed Anthropic, an AI startup, to use copyrighted materials for training purposes. Authors contend that Microsoft utilized nearly 200,000 pirated books, enabling Megatron to replicate their writing styles. They are seeking damages of up to $150,000 per work infringed.

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13. Congressional Medal of Honor for WWII Army Rangers

Timestamp: [10:12] - [10:39]

John Bickley highlights a moment of national recognition as Speaker of the House Mike Johnson honors U.S. Army Rangers from World War II with the Congressional Medal of Honor ([10:12]). Johnson emphasizes the Rangers' pivotal role in American special operations during the war, stating, "Today we express our most profound gratitude for their courage and contributions with the highest honor that this body can bestow."

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Drive Home Updates

Timestamp: [10:39]

Georgia Howe wraps up with "Drive Home" updates, briefly referencing major stories from the morning edition, including:

• Trump's NATO Victory Lap
• Battle Over the Big Beautiful Bill
• Alarming Claims About the Therapy Industry

Listeners are encouraged to visit dailywire.com for more information.

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Conclusion:
The Evening Wire episode delves into critical international and domestic issues, from Iran's internal repression and nuclear setbacks to significant legal battles in the United States. Hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe provide comprehensive coverage, enriched with expert insights and direct quotes, ensuring listeners are well-informed on the latest developments across politics, law, and societal changes.

Transcript

[John Bickley]

Iran cracks down on alleged dissidents, the Supreme Court rules against Planned Parenthood and the Abrego Garcia saga continues. I'm Daily Wire Executive editor John Bickley with Georgia Howe. It's Thursday, June 26th, and this is Evening Wire.

[Georgia Howe]

Iran is cracking down with mass arrests and executions following the 12 day war with Israel. Human rights groups say over 700 people have been detained on political or security charges, with many being accused of having ties to Israel. State media reports that three alleged Israeli agents have already been executed, with more likely facing the same fate. Armed police have flooded the streets in Tehran even as some Iranians quietly express anger over the regime's role in the conflict.

[John Bickley]

Iran's supreme leader briefly came out of hiding today to claim victory. This comes despite the severe damage of the regime's nuclear sites and their failed strikes on a U.S. base. Daily Wire's senior editor, Cabot Phillips has the latest.

[Cabot Phillips]

Speaking publicly for the first time since the conflict began, Ayatollah Khamenei insisted Iran, quote, delivered a hand slap to America's face even as satellite images show widespread damage. Nuclear facilities that were struck on top of those images. CIA Director John Ratcliffe now says new intelligence confirms the facilities were decimated, setting the regime's nuclear program back years. Statement comes as President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blasted media coverage. With the defense secretary on a warpath in a press briefing this morning, the.

[Tim Rice]

DIA that put that report out says this is a preliminary low confidence report and will continue to be refined as additional intelligence becomes available. How about the Israeli Atomic Energy Commission? The devastating US Strikes on Fordeau destroyed the site's critical infrastructure and rendered the enrichment facility inoperable. Have any of these quotes made their way into the New York Times or the Washington Post? Msnbc, cnn.

[Cabot Phillips]

While outlets like CNN and the New York Times say they stand by their reporting, Trump took to Truth Social to call the reports, quote, fake and claimed that, quote, layoffs are coming.

[Georgia Howe]

The Trump administration has reportedly told Iran that it must surrender its remaining enriched uranium. Earlier this month, the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that Iran had Stockpiled more than 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%. If enriched to 90%, it could be used to create several nuclear bombs. According to a report from an Israeli news outlet, the US Intends to present Iran with three baseline demands for reentering a total ban on uranium enrichment on Iranian soil, the removal of all highly enriched uranium Iran has already stockpiled and limitations on future missile production.

[John Bickley]

President Trump's big beautiful bill has hit a snag in the Senate, as some Republican cuts to Medicaid mean the bill cannot be fast tracked for approval. The Senate parliamentarian ruled that the proposed changes to Medicaid funding render the bill ineligible for the budget reconciliation process. That process would allow the bill to bypass the 60 vote requirement to end a filibuster and pass with a simple majority. Republicans currently hold a slim 5347 majority in the Senate. Senator Roger Marshall, a Republican from Kansas, told this to Morning Wire.

[Roger Marshall]

When we present her with with our budget reconciliation plan, she's to figure out are we trying to change policy or is it big impact on the budget? And in this particular case, over the last 48 hours, we've seen her clip probably 500, $600 billion of policies that she wants to gut this one big, beautiful bill. I think it's wrong to have one person being able to do all that, and that's why I'm introducing just term limits. I think that this person shouldn't be in there for any longer than six years.

[Georgia Howe]

The Supreme Court ruled earlier today that state governments can block the flow of Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood, and Daily Wire reporter Mairead Elordi has the details.

[Mairead Elordi]

On the decision in a 6 to 3 vote. Along ideological lines, the court ruled that South Carolina is allowed to exclude Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid funds. Justice Neil Gorsuch authored the court's opinion, noting that states have the authority to decide which health care providers are, quote, qualified and can participate in Medicaid. The decision paves the way for other states that may want to exclude Planned Parenthood from their Medicaid programs.

[John Bickley]

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced his bid for reelection today following the surprise victory of Democratic Socialist Zoran Mamdani in the Democratic primary. The incumbent, Adams, was elected as a Democrat in 2021, but he's now running as an independent this year amid low approval ratings and has since dropped federal corruption charges.

[Eric Adams]

They try to distract me when I wanted to study and move up through the ranks in the police department. They try to distract me when I became a state senator. They tried to distract me from when I became the mayor. And no matter what distraction they threw at me, God has made the pathway. So you can call me all the names you want, but I'm going to answer to only one. Mayor Adams.

[John Bickley]

The saga of Kilmar Abrego Garcia continues. Daily Wire deputy Managing editor Tim Rice has more.

[Tim Rice]

Abrego Garcia's lawyers filed an emergency motion this morning to prevent his deportation and keep him out of federal custody. The motion asks the judge to order Abrego Garcia back to Maryland immediately upon his release in Tennessee. The motion would block ICE officials from detaining and deporting him while he faces federal charges for human smuggling. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the charges against Abrego Garcia in a press conference last month.

[Pam Bondi]

The grand jury found that over the past nine years Abrego Garcia has played a significant role role in an alien smuggling ring. They found this was his full time job, not a contractor. He was a smuggler of humans and children and women.

[Georgia Howe]

The Trump administration announced restrictions on three Mexican banks accused of laundering money for the cartels. Daily Wire reporter Spencer Lindquist has more.

[Spencer Lindquist]

The Treasury Department identified three Mexican financial institutions, C Banco, Intercam and Vector, as complicit in laundering millions of dollars on behalf of criminal cartels that traffic fentanyl into the United States, as well as facilitating payments for the precursor chemicals for fentanyl. The announcement yesterday prohibits American financial institutions from engaging in certain transactions with these three banks, marking another step in the Treasury's campaign to choke off funds from the criminal cartels. These restrictions are the first enforcement actions enabled by two relatively new laws related to fentanyl, which empower the treasury to target money laundering associated with the trafficking of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.

[Caroline Levitt]

Is your home's title still in your name? With one forged document, scammers can steal your home title and equity. But now you can protect yourself. Home Title Locks at Million Dollar Triple lock protection provides 24.7title monitoring, urgent alerts to changes and if fraud happens they'll spend up to a million dollars to fix it and restore your title. Use promo code daily [e-mail] for a free title history report plus a free 14 day trial of their million dollar triple lock protection. Head over to hometitlelock.com now with promo code Daily Wire to ensure your title is still in your name.

[John Bickley]

Closing arguments kicked off today in the trial of disgraced rapper Sean Diddy Combs who faces charges including sex trafficking and racketeering. The weeks long trial has garnered media attention due to the salacious details surrounding Combs so called freak off parties. While prosecutors recently dropped two of the charges for attempted arson and kidnapping, the other charges remain. Prosecutors reportedly told the jury this morning that even if one freak off was coerced, Combs would be considered guilty of sex trafficking.

[Georgia Howe]

RFK Jr. S vaccine panel has recommended a new shot for infants. Daily Wire reporter Amanda Presto Giacomo has the latest.

[Pam Bondi]

Today a CDC vaccine panel approved Merck's new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus, known as rsv. The panel also voted to include the shot on the government's list of recommended childhood vaccines. The approval allows the vaccine to launch before RSV season. RSV is a leading cause of hospitalizations in infants. The vote comes after rfk replaced all 17 members of the panel. Some had worried he would fill the panel with so called anti vaxxers. Only two of the seven panel members voted against the vaccine.

[Georgia Howe]

Meanwhile, RFK has scored another win as more companies climb aboard the MAHA train. Nestle and conagra will remove synthetic dyes from their foods over the next two years. Kennedy thanked the companies and says he urges others to join the Make America Healthy Again agenda. The move comes as more and more states pass laws aimed at curbing the use of synthetic dyes.

[John Bickley]

No more pain at the pump. Gas prices have hit their lowest point since 2021. The national average price of gasoline is about $3.20 a gallon. Now here's press Secretary Caroline Levitt.

[Mairead Elordi]

Despite all the doom casting from liberal pundits, oil prices on Tuesday were lower than before the Israel conflict began. As President Trump continues to unleash American energy, our country will have even more efficient, reliable and affordable energy to protect our national security and fuel our people.

[Georgia Howe]

Microsoft is being sued by multiple authors who say the company stole their books to train its AI model, Megatron. The lawsuit comes just a day after California ruled that Anthropic, an AI startup, can fairly use copyrighted material to train its systems. Tech companies argue that it is fair use to create new content based off copyrighted content. Still, the authors claim that Microsoft used nearly 200,000 pirated books to train Megatron, which will be able to mimic their writing style, including tone and syntax. They've requested damages of up to $150,000 for each work the company allegedly stole.

[John Bickley]

And today, speaker of the House Mike Johnson honored U.S. army Rangers who served in World War II with the Congressional Medal of Honor, something he said is long overdue. They formed the spearhead of American special operations in the Second World War, and today we express our most profound gratitude for their courage and contributions with the highest honor that this body can bestow, and that is the Congressional Gold Medal.

[Georgia Howe]

Those are your Drive Home updates this evening. To learn more about these stories, go to dailywire.com and in case you missed it, this morning we covered some major stories, including Trump's NATO victory lap, the battle over the big beautiful bill, and and alarming claims about the therapy industry. Thanks for tuning in. We'll be back tomorrow morning with another full edition of morningwe.