NPR News Now – October 12, 2025, 6AM EDT

Host: Giles Snyder | Duration: 5 minutes

Episode Overview

This edition of "NPR News Now" delivers a concise roundup of global and national headlines. Major stories include developments in the Middle East, a devastating industrial accident in Tennessee, ongoing concerns around federal troop deployment in Chicago, updates on military pay during a government shutdown, continued support for rural air travel, and the passing of celebrated actress Diane Keaton.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Israel-Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal

[00:14–01:01]

• Anticipation for Hostage Release:
  The episode opens with anticipation around the imminent release of hostages as part of the first phase of the ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas.
• Hostage Square in Tel Aviv:
  Celebrations mix with cautious optimism. Hundreds gather, displaying affection for visiting dignitaries and expressing gratitude towards President Trump for brokering the deal.
• Notable Public Presence:
  U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner are warmly welcomed by Israeli crowds.
• President Trump's Involvement:
  Trump plans a Middle East visit, including an address to the Israeli parliament and co-hosting a Gaza summit.

Memorable Quote:

“There is celebration. There's hope and cautious optimism. I was at the downtown Tel Aviv public plaza, dubbed Hostage Square, where there has been a lot of hugging and adulation for President Trump for personally brokering this deal.”
– Carrie Khan, NPR Correspondent in Tel Aviv [00:46]

2. Tennessee Explosives Plant Blast

[01:01–02:06]

• Tragic Explosion:
  Officials confirm no survivors after a massive blast at Accurate Energetic Systems, a company supplying military and industrial explosives.
• Vigil in McEwen, Tennessee:
  The tight-knit community mourns; almost everyone knows someone affected.
• Investigation:
  Cause of the explosion remains undetermined.

Community Reflection:

“I'm going to know more people when all the names come out, because this is small and I've lived here, you know, all my life.”
– Linda Sutton, McEwen resident [01:43]

3. Federal Troops and the Chicago Marathon

[02:06–03:12]

• Legal Update:
  Appeals court blocks President Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops specifically to Chicago, though troops remain in Illinois under federal control.
• Public Concerns:
  The Chicago Marathon proceeds amid anxiety over law enforcement activity and safety, particularly for immigrant participants.
• Latino Running Community:
  Local organizers focus on runner safety over fears of immigration raids.

Notable Quote:

“I'm more afraid of individuals that are out there trying to do this in a group of three, a group of four. Right. That that's where you know something can happen and your family won't find out for days.”
– Enrique Rivera, Organizer of The Navos running club [02:51]

4. Military Pay and Government Shutdown Impacts

[03:12–03:50]

• White House Action:
  As the government shutdown looms, President Trump directs the Defense Department to prioritize military pay, though many other federal employees continue working without pay.
• Widespread Layoffs:
  The White House Budget Office has begun laying off thousands of federal workers.

5. Essential Air Service Program Extension

[03:50–04:28]

• Subsidy Program Update:
  Funding for flights to rural airports (Essential Air Service) is extended through early November, averting immediate disruptions.
• Community Dependence:
  Over 170 communities, including 60 in Alaska, rely on this program.
• Carrier Response:
  Major and regional airlines express intent to maintain service, at least short-term, even if subsidies lapse.

6. In Memoriam: Diane Keaton

[04:28–04:57]

• Diane Keaton’s Passing:
  Beloved actress Diane Keaton dies at 79. Tributes pour in from peers and co-stars.
• Career Highlights:
  Starred in "The Godfather" trilogy, won an Oscar for "Annie Hall," and co-starred in "The First Wives Club" and "Marvin’s Room."
• Tributes:
  • Bette Midler: "A complete original" [social media, reported by Snyder]
  • Leonardo DiCaprio: “One of a kind” [social media, reported by Snyder]

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Celebration in Tel Aviv: “There is celebration. There's hope and cautious optimism.” – Carrie Khan [00:46]
• Personal Loss in McEwen: “I'm going to know more people when all the names come out, because this is small…” – Linda Sutton [01:43]
• Runner Safety Concerns: “I'm more afraid of individuals that are out there trying to do this in a group of three…” – Enrique Rivera [02:51]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Israel-Gaza Ceasefire & Hostages: [00:14–01:01]
• Tennessee Factory Explosion: [01:01–02:06]
• Chicago Federal Troops & Marathon: [02:06–03:12]
• Military Pay During Shutdown: [03:12–03:50]
• Essential Air Service Funding: [03:50–04:28]
• Diane Keaton’s Passing: [04:28–04:57]

This summary captures the core stories and sentiments expressed in this 5-minute national news update. For full context or nuanced details, listen to the complete NPR News Now episode.