NPR News Now: August 10, 2025 - 10 AM EDT

Hosted by Giles Snyder

Protests in Israel and Upcoming UN Security Council Meeting

[00:16] Giles Snyder opens the episode by reporting significant unrest in Israel. Thousands protested last night in Tel Aviv and other cities against the Israeli government's plan to take control of Gaza City. The widespread demonstrations reflect deep concerns over potential escalations in the region.

[00:37] Linda Fasullo covers the reaction from the international community. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the Israeli Security Cabinet's plan, labeling it a "dangerous escalation that risks deepening catastrophic humanitarian consequences for Palestinians and could endanger the lives of the remaining hostages held by Hamas and Russia." Guterres' remarks underscore the grave implications of the proposed military actions.

The UN Security Council is slated to hold an emergency meeting in response to the situation, a session prompted by multiple member states. However, the United States is expected to block any substantive Security Council actions regarding the matter. President Trump has stated that the expansion of Israel's military operations in Gaza is "really up to Israel" and has accused Hamas of not being interested in making a ceasefire deal.

China, Arab nations, and several Western countries—including Britain, France, Canada, Italy, and Australia—have voiced their opposition to Israel's decision, highlighting the international community's apprehension about the potential for increased conflict and humanitarian crises.

Ukraine's Stance on U.S.-Russia Summit in Alaska

[01:21] The focus shifts to Ukraine, where tensions are rising over the planned summit in Alaska between President Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Alexandra Ustinova, a member of the Ukrainian parliament, explains Ukraine's position:

[01:36] “President Zelensky can be pushed hard by both President Trump and Putin to sign any deal. One thing that people do not understand, Ukraine is a parliamentary presidential republic, and it will always need to be ratified in the parliament. I cannot imagine our parliament ratifying anything that doesn't bring actual peace. And if there are no guarantees, which is the key question every Ukrainian is asking that the parliament would vote for that.”

Ustinova emphasizes that any agreement reached at the summit must secure genuine peace guarantees to be acceptable to the Ukrainian legislature. Ukraine's European allies have reiterated that Kyiv must have a seat at the peace table, underscoring the country's crucial role in any resolution.

Controversial Changes to the U.S. Census

[02:04] Attention turns to domestic policy as civil rights groups monitor President Trump's proposal to alter the U.S. census. Hansi Lomong reports on the potential implications of these changes:

[02:27] The 14th Amendment mandates that the census counts every person in each state to determine congressional representation and electoral votes. However, President Trump has called for excluding individuals without legal status in states from the new census numbers.

In response, Sophia Lynn Lakin of the American Civil Liberties Union stated, “We’ll be monitoring as the Trump administration tries to carry out this change.” The Commerce Department has indicated that the Census Bureau will employ "modern technology tools to analyze data in response to Trump’s call."

[02:49] Alexandra Ustinova adds, “We won’t hesitate to go back to court to protect representation for all communities. The census isn’t just a headcount. It’s meant to reflect America as it is, not as some would prefer it to be.”

These proposed changes have raised significant concerns regarding constitutional violations and the accurate representation of the U.S. population.

Severe Storms Impact the Midwest

[03:10] Giles Snyder reports on the devastating impact of strong storms that swept through eastern Nebraska over the weekend. The severe weather resulted in power outages, widespread damage, and tragic loss of life. A particularly harrowing incident involved a prison where hundreds of inmates had to be relocated for safety.

Officials confirmed that the storms claimed one life and left another person seriously injured when their vehicle was crushed by a falling tree in a state park. Additionally, Wisconsin experienced flash flooding that forced the early closure of the state fair, leaving tens of thousands without power.

Environmental Policy Changes Under President Trump

[03:53] A new analysis highlights significant alterations to environmental websites during President Trump's second term compared to his first. Jeff Brady from NPR details the findings:

[03:53] Gretchen Gerke, a lead author of the report from the Environmental Data and Governance Initiative, stated, “The Environmental Data and Governance Initiative found 70% more changes to environmental websites during the first 100 days of Trump’s second term compared to the first.”

[04:05] Alexandra Ustinova expresses concern over the extent of these changes: “I am surprised by the extent of the removal of information about environmental justice. That level of kind of total erasure we didn’t see with any topic under the first Trump administration.”

Former President Biden had prioritized environmental justice as a cornerstone of his climate agenda, advocating for equal access to a healthy environment. In contrast, Trump White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers responded, stating that agencies are now "focused on their missions and not, quote, ideological activism."

The study's authors argue that the changes are not only more frequent but also more substantial, indicating a significant shift in environmental policy and data management under the current administration.

World Yo-Yo Contest Concludes in Prague

[04:36] Shifting to lighter news, Giles Snyder announces the conclusion of the World Yo-Yo Contest in Prague, Czech Republic. The event brought together yo-yo enthusiasts from over 30 countries competing for the world championship title. The contest showcased incredible skill and dedication, highlighting the global community's passion for the sport.

For more updates, stay tuned to NPR News Now.