NPR News Now: June 14, 2025, 9AM EDT – Detailed Summary

NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update on June 14, 2025, covering a range of international and domestic issues from escalating tensions in the Middle East to significant events in the United States and the United Kingdom. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed in the episode.

1. Escalation of Iran-Israel Conflict

Timestamp: [00:17] – [01:22]

The episode opened with alarming news of Iran launching hundreds of missiles at Israel overnight. This aggressive action was in retaliation for Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which resulted in the death of Tom, an Iranian security official. Most of the missiles were intercepted, but several caused damage in populated areas.

Eyewitness Account: Hadil Al Shalji from NPR News in Tel Aviv reported from the scene where some missiles did hit neighborhoods.

• Shoshana Mizrahi, Resident of Rishon Letzion:
  "All the house was like shaking. There was smoke. The window in the shelter was broke."
  [00:53]

Mizrahi detailed the destruction caused by the missile strike, including a destroyed home and widespread debris in her suburb of Rishon Letzion. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded by vowing that more attacks on Iran are forthcoming.

2. Nationwide 'No Kings' Protests Against President Trump

Timestamp: [01:22] – [02:14]

A significant nationwide mobilization of anti-Trump protesters, dubbed the "No Kings" movement, is underway across the United States. Authorities in Los Angeles are anticipating a large turnout in the same week, leading to unusual federal intervention.

Federal Response: President Trump has federalized thousands of National Guard troops and deployed hundreds of Marines, actions taken against the preferences of local and state leaders.

• Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles:
  "We are clear that we are a test case and they want to see just how far federal overreach can go."
  [01:44]

Marines in Los Angeles made their first-ever detention of a civilian on Friday, marking a rare use of military force to support domestic police operations.

3. Major Military Parade in Washington D.C. and Aviation Restrictions

Timestamp: [01:51] – [02:54]

A massive military parade is scheduled in Washington D.C. to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and celebrate President Trump's birthday. This event has prompted significant security measures.

Flight and Traffic Restrictions:

• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is restricting flights around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from 6 to 9:30 PM local time.
• Numerous streets near the National Mall will be closed, with some remaining shut until the following Monday.

Joel Rose, NPR News, Washington:
“Many roads around the nation's capital will be closed as well.”
[02:14]

The parade will feature military aircraft flyovers and fireworks, with concerns about potential damage from the procession of tanks and heavy artillery.

4. Russia and Ukraine Exchange Prisoners of War

Timestamp: [02:54] – [03:32]

In a development stemming from recent negotiations in Istanbul, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged prisoners of war. The Russian Defense Ministry announced the transfer of the bodies of 1,200 Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv, fulfilling part of the agreements made earlier this month.

5. Case of Wrongful Deportation Highlighting Immigration Policy Issues

Timestamp: [03:32] – [04:17]

A high-profile case has emerged involving Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man who was erroneously deported from Maryland to El Salvador but has since returned to the U.S. He is now facing criminal charges related to human smuggling.

Details from Mariana Bacallau, Nashville: Abrego Garcia was detained after a 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee revealed he was transporting nine men without legal status through the country. Prosecutors allege he was paid thousands of dollars for these activities.

• Mariana Bacallau:
  “Abrego Garcia arrived in the US last week after spending three months in an El Salvadoran prison. In that time, his case has galvanized critics of the Trump administration's immigration policy.”
  [03:32]

A federal judge has yet to decide on bail, but if released, Abrego Garcia will be held in ICE custody pending his trial or potential deportation.

6. UK Honors King Charles and Remembers Air India Plane Crash Victims

Timestamp: [04:17] – [04:56]

In the United Kingdom, King Charles is being honored with the annual Trooping the Colour parade, a traditional event rich in pageantry and military display. This year’s parade holds additional somber significance as members of the royal family wore black armbands to honor the victims of a recent Air India plane crash, which resulted in the deaths of 270 individuals, including over 50 British nationals.

Honors and Recognitions:

• The ceremony also included the knighting of several individuals, notably soccer star Sir David Beckham.
• Buckingham Palace acknowledged the contributions of hundreds of citizens who have performed outstanding work within their communities.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical events and discussions presented in the June 14, 2025, episode of NPR News Now. The episode delivered timely reports on international conflicts, significant domestic protests, major public events, and notable legal cases, providing listeners with a broad overview of current affairs.