NPR News Now: January 4, 2025, 1 PM EST
Nora Ramm brings you the latest developments from around the world in this comprehensive summary of today's NPR News Now episode.
Passing of President Jimmy Carter
[00:24] Nora Ramm begins the episode with a heartfelt report on the final journey of former President Jimmy Carter. At the age of 100, Carter passed away last Sunday, and his motorcade is now proceeding through Plains, Georgia. Steve Futterman provides on-the-ground insights:
"Some people here who have come are carrying signs. I see one sign that says 'You were one of us.' Other people are carrying American flags. Some people seem to be saying prayers as the motorcade goes by. Just a very solemn moment as the six days of commemoration begin." [00:48]
The casket, draped in the American flag, is accompanied by Carter’s family and former Secret Service members who served as pallbearers. The community reflects on Carter's legacy as his remains are transported to his hometown, marking a moment of national remembrance.
Deadly New Orleans Attack and ISIS Inspiration
In a tragic incident, Nora Ramm reports on a violent attack that shook New Orleans on New Year's Day. Shamsa Denja Barr, a Texas-born U.S. Army veteran, drove a pickup truck into a crowd, resulting in at least 14 fatalities before being fatally shot by police.
[01:25] Ramm highlights the FBI's ongoing investigation:
"The FBI now believes he was inspired by the Islamic State terrorist group." [01:51]
An NPR Analyst elaborates on the nature of such attacks:
"In a directed attack, a terrorist organization is in contact with a person or a cell of people... In contrast, an individual can say, watch or read ISIS propaganda online, come to sympathize with the group's ideology... and then decide to carry out violence to act in their name on their own." [01:51]
This distinction underscores the complexities in combating both organized and lone-wolf terrorism.
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Negotiations
Nora Ramm transitions to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, noting the resumption of ceasefire talks in Qatar. However, recent weeks have seen negotiations stall, with both parties attributing the impasse to each other's actions.
[02:17] Reporting from Tel Aviv, Carrie Khan shares statements from key figures involved:
Bassem Naim, a senior Hamas leader, issued a rare English-language statement on social media:
"Palestinians in Gaza are suffering greatly under endless Israeli airstrikes. We call for a permanent ceasefire now." [02:35]
John Kirby, the U.S. National Security Adviser, responded:
"To secure and deliver the necessary needs to confront the tragic circumstances, especially in the face of the cold winter season." [02:48]
Furthermore, Bassem Naim criticized Israel's stance:
"Israel says Hamas is holding up a deal and has not released a full list of hostages it is holding in Gaza, along with other demands. It says any ceasefire must be temporary." [02:58]
Kirby affirmed the U.S. commitment:
"The US will stay engaged in the talks until President Biden leaves office later this month." [02:58]
These developments highlight the fragile and contentious nature of peace negotiations in the region.
Volcanic Eruption in Ethiopia Causes Evacuations
Shifting focus to environmental news, Nora Ramm reports on a natural disaster unfolding in northeastern Ethiopia. Mount Dofen, a long-dormant volcano, has shown signs of renewed activity with steam eruptions commencing on Thursday.
[03:19] The eruptions have led to volcanic mudflows, causing significant damage to critical infrastructure, including major roadways that now exhibit large cracks. Authorities have initiated evacuations to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
This resurgence of volcanic activity poses substantial challenges for the region, both in terms of immediate safety and long-term infrastructural integrity.
Young Prodigy Becomes World Darts Champion
In a remarkable achievement in the world of sports, a 17-year-old Luke Littler has become the youngest ever world champion in darts. Lauren Freyr covers this inspiring story:
[03:59] Littler, a former junior world champion, has been recognized as a darts prodigy. The BBC has showcased home videos of him honing his skills as a toddler, even before he outgrew diapers. After defeating a seasoned Dutch player in the final, Littler expressed his disbelief:
"I just can't believe it." [03:59]
Echoing his sentiments, John Kirby reflects on the victory:
"Walking around backstage with it, I can tell myself I've won it and it's mine. But it's not sunk in." [04:15]
Littler's triumph has significantly boosted the popularity of darts, with 90,000 tickets for this year's championship selling out within 15 minutes. The final, held in London, was a vibrant event with fans donning festive costumes, celebrating the young champion's success. Lauren Freyr concludes:
"He's helped popularize the sport of darts." [04:21]
German Chancellor Criticizes Elon Musk’s Political Involvement
In political news from Germany, Nora Ramm reports on concerns expressed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz regarding billionaire Elon Musk's involvement in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
[04:34] Scholz voiced his apprehensions over Musk's support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. This follows Musk's contentious remarks, including calling Scholz a "fool" when Scholz's coalition government collapsed in November.
In a magazine interview published today, Scholz stated:
"There is nothing new in criticism by rich media. Entrepreneurs do not appreciate social democratic policies." [04:34]
Scholz's comments reflect broader tensions between media moguls and social democratic governance, emphasizing the impact of influential figures like Musk on political landscapes.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from NPR News Now's January 4, 2025, episode, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and readers alike.