NPR News Now: Episode Summary – June 19, 2025

Released June 20, 2025

1. Rising Calls for the Assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader

Location: Holon, Tel Aviv
Speaker: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz

In a significant escalation of tensions, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz publicly reiterated the imperative to eliminate Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking to reporters in Holon, the suburbs of Tel Aviv hardest hit by regional tensions, Katz declared that removing Khamenei is a central objective in the ongoing conflict.

At 00:40, Katz stated, “Killing, at least for now.” This follows his earlier remarks where he emphasized the necessity of targeting the Iranian dictator to achieve Israel's war objectives. The Israeli military had recently targeted an Iranian state TV studio, underscoring the intensifying efforts to weaken Iran’s leadership.

Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the issue on his social media platform, Truth Social, revealing that the U.S. has pinpointed Khamenei’s location but deferred any immediate action with the comment, “We know exactly where he is, but we are not going to take him out.” This delicate stance highlights the complex geopolitical maneuvers at play.

2. U.S. Resumes Student Visa Appointments with Enhanced Screening Measures

Location: Washington, D.C.
Reporter: Michelle Kellerman, NPR

The U.S. State Department announced the resumption of visa appointments for international students, introducing stringent new guidelines aimed at screening applicants' social media activities. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has adopted a rigorous approach towards student visas, particularly scrutinizing applicants for any signs of hostility towards American citizens, culture, government institutions, or foundational principles.

As reported by Michelle Kellerman at 01:36, “Applicants will be asked to set their social media accounts to public so that consular officials can look at them before issuing a visa.” This policy shift follows previous actions where visas were revoked for students participating in protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Additionally, the new guidelines include vetting for perceived antisemitism, reflecting heightened concerns about extremist sentiments.

3. Federal Judge Allows Hate Crime Charges in Colorado Molotov Cocktail Incident

Location: Boulder, Colorado
Reporter: Allison Sherry, NPR

A federal court in Colorado has permitted hate crime charges to proceed against Mohammed Suleiman, who is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at a crowd in Boulder. The incident specifically targeted individuals who regularly gathered to advocate for the release of Israeli hostages, raising questions about the motivations behind the attack.

During the proceedings at 02:32, Suleiman’s attorney contended that the attack was politically motivated rather than targeting individuals based on their national origin. However, federal prosecutors presented evidence from Suleiman’s writings and interviews indicating his animosity towards Zionists—those supporting Israel’s nation-state policies.

Allison Sherry reported, “The judge ultimately agreed with the prosecutors,” allowing the hate crime charges to move forward, underscoring the legal system’s role in addressing politically fueled violence.

4. North Korea Launches Rocket Artillery Amid Heightened Regional Tensions

Location: Korean Peninsula
Reporter: Jeanine Herbst, NPR

In a provocative display of military might, North Korea fired several rounds of rocket artillery westward into the Sea of Japan. This action follows joint air drills conducted by South Korea, Japan, and the United States under the new South Korean administration, marking the first of its kind since the recent presidential transition.

Jeanine Herbst reported at 03:13, “The South's military says the north fired about 10 rounds from multiple short-range rocket launches near Pyongyang.” Intelligence from Ukraine and Western sources has suggested that North Korea may be supplying these rockets to Russia for use in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, exacerbating international tensions.

South Korea has condemned the actions, urging both Moscow and Pyongyang to cease what it labels as "illegal cooperation." The situation remains volatile as regional powers navigate the complexities of military alliances and retaliations.

5. Hurricane Eric Makes Landfall in Oaxaca, Mexico

Location: Oaxaca, Mexico
Reporter: Ada Peralta, NPR

Hurricane Eric, downgraded to a tropical storm, made landfall in Oaxaca, Mexico, on Thursday morning. The storm, a rare Category 3 event for the region, has already caused significant disruptions, including landslides that have obliterated roads and downed power lines.

Ada Peralta reported at 04:07, “Authorities said landslides had closed roads and brought down power lines across the region.” This event follows the devastating impact of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco earlier in 2023, which rapidly intensified to a Category 5 storm. Mexican President Claudia Martínez emphasized improved preparedness measures this time, stating, “Fortunately, we have to thank the for heating evacuation orders.” Authorities continue to assess the damage and aid those affected, highlighting ongoing concerns about severe weather patterns in the Pacific coast of Mexico.

6. Mixed Performance in Asian Financial Markets

Location: Asia
Reporter: Jeanine Herbst, NPR

Asian stock markets exhibited mixed performances in the early hours. Japan's Nikkei Index showed resilience, climbing approximately 3.10%, while the Asia Dow faced a slight decline of about 0.3%. These fluctuations reflect the current economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions impacting investor confidence across the region.

Jeanine Herbst summarized at 04:45, “Asian markets are trading in mixed territory at this hour. The Nikkei in Japan up about 3.10% the Asia Dow down about 0.3%.” Investors remain cautious amid ongoing global conflicts and natural disasters, balancing growth prospects with economic risks.

Note: This summary captures the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the NPR News Now episode released on June 20, 2025, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.