NPR News Now: June 19, 2025, 5PM EDT

Host: Jeanine Hurst
Release Date: June 19, 2025

1. Escalating Tensions Between Israel and Iran

Israel’s Call for Action Against Iran’s Supreme Leader

The episode opens with alarming developments in the Middle East, where calls for the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, are intensifying within Israel. Speaking from Holon, a suburb heavily impacted by recent conflicts, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz made a provocative statement:

"Killing Iran's supreme leader is a goal of the war. The Israeli military was directed and knows that in order to achieve all the objectives of the war, this man certainly cannot continue to exist."
— Israel Katz [00:46]

Katz further intensified the rhetoric by likening Khamenei to historical figures:

"We will strike the Iranian dictator everywhere."
— Israel Katz [00:46]

These declarations come in the wake of an Israeli military strike on an Iranian state TV studio, signaling a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict.

U.S. Response and Deliberation

In parallel, President Donald Trump has indicated deliberation over a possible U.S. strike against Iran. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt provided an update:

"Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go [on a strike] within the next two weeks."
— Caroline Levitt [01:41]

This statement suggests a cautious approach, balancing military action with the possibility of diplomatic negotiations.

2. European Push for Diplomacy

Amid the rising tensions, European leaders are advocating for diplomatic solutions. NPR’s Rob Schmitz reports from Berlin:

Iranian Diplomatic Engagements

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchee is scheduled to meet with the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom in Geneva. These meetings aim to de-escalate the situation, with a joint statement emphasizing restraint:

"All sides must show restraint, refrain from taking steps that lead to further escalation in the region, and return to diplomacy."
— Rob Schmitz [02:11]

The involvement of these European nations, key players in the original 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, underscores their continued influence and commitment to maintaining diplomatic channels.

3. TikTok’s Uncertain Future in the U.S.

Executive Order Extension

President Trump has extended TikTok’s operational deadline in the United States by another 90 days, providing additional time to secure a U.S.-based buyer for the platform. This marks the third extension following a national ban approved by Congress and upheld by the Supreme Court earlier this year.

"It’s the third time Trump has extended the deadline. Congress approved a national ban that was upheld by the Supreme Court in January."
— Jeanine Hurst [02:48]

TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, remains under scrutiny amid ongoing concerns over data security and foreign influence.

4. Breakthrough in Sleep Research

Understanding Sleep Debt

Shifting to scientific advancements, a study published in the journal Science reveals a novel understanding of sleep debt. NPR’s John Hamilton summarizes the findings from Johns Hopkins University researchers:

Discovery of Sleep-Tracking Neurons

Researchers identified specific neurons in the thalamus that track sleep debt in mice. These neurons become more active when an animal is sleep-deprived and normalize once adequate rest is achieved.

"These neurons make up a circuit in the thalamus, an area of the brain that plays a crucial role in sleep-wake cycles. When the team activated these cells, mice would sleep longer and more deeply than they typically did."
— John Hamilton [03:39]

This discovery could have significant implications for understanding and treating sleep disorders, including those associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Hurricane Eric Hits Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Impact and Forecast

Hurricane Eric made landfall this morning on Mexico's Pacific coast near Punta Maldonado Aldado as a formidable Category 3 storm, boasting maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center reported a subsequent weakening of the storm to a tropical system with winds down to 50 miles per hour and higher gusts.

"The storm is forecast to drop 6 to 8 inches of rain in two different cities, with 16 inches total. Forecasters say the storm is expected to rapidly weaken and dissipate overnight."
— Jeanine Hurst [04:20]

Residents are advised to prepare for significant rainfall and potential flooding, though the storm is expected to lessen in strength swiftly.

6. Additional News

Juneteenth Observation

In observance of Juneteenth, Wall Street was closed today, highlighting the federal recognition of this significant day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates a range of critical issues, from international tensions and diplomatic efforts to technological challenges and scientific breakthroughs. Stay informed with NPR as these stories continue to unfold.