NPR News Now – March 25, 2025, 9 AM EDT

Hosted by Korva Coleman

1. White House Officials’ Use of Commercial Messaging Apps for Military Communications

In a significant security oversight, the White House National Security Council is scrutinizing the use of a commercial messaging application by top Trump administration officials to discuss imminent U.S. military strikes in Yemen. This breach was highlighted when journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was inadvertently added to the chat, mistaking it for a hoax before realizing it contained real-time military information.

Greg Myre of NPR emphasized the severity of the lapse:
"These airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen began on a Saturday afternoon, so officials may not have been near a scif. But it doesn't mean they should be discussing the launch of a major US Military operation in real time on their phones on a commercial messaging app."
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The administration officials involved reportedly included high-profile figures such as the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, and CIA Director, John Ratcliffe. Both were scheduled to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee later that day. The incident underscores the critical need for secure communication channels in handling sensitive military operations.

2. U.S. and Ukrainian Officials Resume Ceasefire Talks with Russia

Ukrainian officials are set to engage in further discussions with U.S. counterparts regarding a potential ceasefire with Russia. This follows a previous meeting where the focus was on negotiating a halt to hostilities in the strategically vital Black Sea region.

Eleanor Beardsley of NPR reported:
"At the top of Russia's agenda with the US Was a ceasefire in the Black Sea. That's because it's one of the places where Ukraine has caused real pain for the Kremlin chasing Russia's Black Sea fleet from its base in Crimea."
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Despite these efforts, the Kremlin has so far declined to agree to a comprehensive ceasefire and continues its assaults on Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his nightly address, attributed the prolongation of the war solely to Russian actions, calling for increased global pressure through sanctions and continued support for Ukraine.

3. President Trump Nominates New Director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Following the withdrawal of his initial candidate, President Trump has nominated Susan Menarez to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Menarez has been serving as the CDC's acting director since January and has maintained agency operations amidst significant policy shifts.

Ping Huang of NPR detailed:
"In a post on Truth Social, announcing Menars as his choice to lead CDC on a permanent basis. Trump said she would work closely with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. To address the chronic disease epidemic."
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Menarez brings relevant experience from her previous leadership role at the federal Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health. Her nomination replaces Dr. Dave Weldon, whose candidacy was derailed by opposition within Republican circles due to his anti-vaccine stance. Menarez is now slated to undergo a Senate confirmation hearing.

4. U.S. Postmaster General Resignation and Potential Commerce Department Takeover

The U.S. Postmaster General has announced his resignation, prompting discussions about the future governance of the Postal Service. Last month, Louis DeJoy had signaled his intent to step down, leading to President Trump contemplating the Commerce Department assuming control of postal operations.

However, legal experts warn that such a move could conflict with federal law, as the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the authority to establish post offices. The transition remains contentious, with debates over the legality and practicality of shifting postal oversight to a different department.

5. Attack on Documentary Filmmaker by Israeli Settlers in the West Bank

A disturbing incident occurred in the West Bank, where Hamdan Bilal, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land," was violently attacked by Israeli settlers. The documentary highlights the ongoing demolition of Palestinian homes in Israeli-occupied territories.

Mandalit Del Barco of NPR reported:
"The group reports the assault was carried out by a group of Israeli settlers, some masked, some carrying batons, knives and an assault rifle. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to NPR's request for information, but police told Channel 12 news in Israel that the clash began with Palest throwing stones at a Jewish miner."
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The attack resulted in the arrest of three Palestinians, including Bilal, and a Jewish minor. This incident underscores the persistent tensions and violence in the region, particularly against those advocating for Palestinian rights and documenting their plight.

6. Weather Forecast: Extreme Heat Expected in Western and Central U.S.

The National Weather Service has issued a forecast warning for extreme heat across the western and central United States this week. Some areas may experience record-breaking high temperatures, posing risks to public health and infrastructure.

For comprehensive updates and more detailed reporting, tune into NPR News Now for the latest developments.

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