NPR News Now: July 28, 2025, 8 PM EDT

Host: Windsor Johnston
Release Date: July 29, 2025

International Affairs

Growing Calls to Allow Food into Gaza

Israel is under increasing international pressure to permit more food supplies into Gaza amid a mounting humanitarian crisis. The World Health Organization reported that 63 people have died this month from hunger in the region. E.A. Batraoui of NPR detailed the situation:

"Israel is also facing renewed international pressure for a two-state solution," Batraoui stated at 00:19.

Two-State Solution Conference at the UN

France and Saudi Arabia co-chaired a significant conference at the United Nations advocating for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. This initiative follows France's recent decision to recognize the State of Palestine, aligning with over 100 countries that have already extended recognition.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the conference, emphasizing the urgency of halting ongoing hostilities:

"The creeping annexation of the occupied West Bank is illegal. It must stop. The wholesale destruction of Gaza is intolerable. It must stop," Guterres declared at 00:58.

Despite his somber remarks, Guterres underscored the necessity of a two-state solution:

"These grim realities are why a two-state solution is needed," he explained.

However, the conference faced criticism as Israel and the United States chose not to participate. Israel's ambassador to the UN criticized the organizers, stating at 01:12:

"The conference's organizers were engaging in discussions disconnected from reality."

Breaking News

Active Shooter Reported in Manhattan

An active shooter situation has been reported in Manhattan, specifically near East 52nd Street between Park and Lexington Avenues, close to the Blackstone Building—the headquarters of a major private equity firm and asset manager. New York City Mayor Eric Adams addressed the public at 01:29:

"We've been briefed on the limited information available. People are being urged to avoid areas around East 52nd Street due to ongoing police activity."

U.S. Politics

Federal Appeals Ruling Weakens Voting Rights Protections

A significant legal development has occurred as a federal appeals panel has weakened federal voting rights protections in seven states, particularly affecting voters with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. Hansi Lo Wang of NPR reported at 02:18:

Arkansas United, an immigrant advocacy group, had previously sued over an Arkansas law that restricts individuals from assisting more than six voters in casting ballots. This law directly challenges Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act, which allows voters needing assistance to receive help from a person of their choice. While a federal judge initially ruled the Arkansas law unconstitutional, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned this decision, stating that private individuals and groups do not have the standing to sue under this section.

This ruling follows the U.S. Supreme Court's recent extension of a pause on a similar case, and the higher court is expected soon to undertake a full review of the matter.

Economy

Federal Reserve Anticipated to Hold Interest Rates Steady

Economists predict that the Federal Reserve will maintain current interest rates during this week's policy meeting, despite ongoing pressure from influential figures such as former President Donald Trump. Trump's calls for lower rates aim to stimulate the U.S. economy, but the Fed appears poised to keep rates unchanged. Windsor Johnston reported this update at 03:01.

International Relations

Ceasefire Between Thailand and Cambodia

A ceasefire agreement has been successfully brokered between Thailand and Cambodia, bringing an end to a five-day border conflict. Malaysian Prime Minister announced the deal following violent clashes that erupted after a landmine explosion injured Thai soldiers. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 35 people and displaced over 250,000 individuals.

Culture

Lebanon Mourns Iconic Artist Ziad Rabbani

Lebanon is commemorating the life of Ziad Rabbani, a revered musician, lyricist, playwright, and director who passed away at the age of 69. NPR's Jawad Riz Khalil provided an in-depth look at Rabbani's impact:

"AR Rahbani was a cultural phenomenon... he was staunchly secular," Khalil noted at 03:55. Rabbani was celebrated for his satirical plays that critiqued Lebanese society, politics, and Israel. His musical compositions blended jazz with classical Arabic music, and he gained prominence by composing for his mother, the legendary singer Fayrouz.

Lebanese cartoonist Bernard Haj encapsulated Rabbani's essence:

"He was a mix of Tom Waits, George Carlin, Dorothy Parker, and John Stewart with the existential despair of Kafka."

A heartfelt tribute was held in Beirut, where hundreds gathered as Rabbani's coffin was carried amidst his beloved songs.

Financial Markets

Mixed Performance on Wall Street

Wall Street presented a mixed day for investors:

• Dow Jones Industrial Average: Decreased by 64 points
• NASDAQ Composite: Increased by 70 points
• S&P 500: Rose by 1 point

Windsor Johnston provided this financial update at 04:43.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now covered a range of critical issues from international conflicts and voting rights in the U.S. to significant cultural losses and financial market movements. Notable quotes from key figures like Antonio Guterres highlighted the urgency of resolving long-standing geopolitical tensions, while recent legal rulings and economic decisions continue to shape the socio-political landscape both domestically and globally.

This summary is based on the transcript of NPR News Now aired on July 28, 2025, at 8 PM EDT.