NPR News Now: November 27, 2024, 4 PM EST

Host: Windsor Johnston
Release Date: November 27, 2024

Middle East Peace Agreement Between Israel and Hezbollah

Time Stamp: 00:17

NPR's Windsor Johnston reports significant developments in the Middle East as an agreement between Israel and Hezbollah militants has been reached, ushering in a period of relative calm in the region. Celebratory gunfire echoed across Lebanon today as thousands of people return to their homes following the accord.

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the administration's commitment to the agreement:
"Several steps are being taken to ensure that the deal holds up," (00:17).

The Lebanese army is mobilizing forces near the Israeli border to solidify the truce. Over the next 60 days, Sullivan outlined, "the Lebanese armed forces, supported by the United States and France and other of our allies, will go into southern Lebanon, take up the positions previously occupied by Hezbollah, and ensure that no terrorist group returns to that region in force" (00:44). This move is aimed at maintaining stability and preventing the resurgence of militant activities.

Revised U.S. Travel Advisory for China

Time Stamp: 01:03

The U.S. State Department has downgraded its travel advisory for China from Level 3 to Level 2, signaling an improvement in bilateral relations. This adjustment comes after reports of a deal between Washington and Beijing, which facilitated the release of three Americans from a Chinese prison.

John Ruich, reporting for NPR, explains:
"The Level 2 advisory advises Americans to exercise increased caution when traveling to China," (01:29). Previously, the advisory warned travelers to reconsider trips to China due to the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. Despite the relaxation, concerns remain over the arbitrary enforcement of laws and wrongful detentions, including exit bans.

The change is notable as China seeks to rejuvenate its tourism sector, potentially easing travel for American students and other visitors.

Department of Energy Announces Major Loans for Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicles

Time Stamp: 02:14

The U.S. Department of Energy has unveiled substantial loan commitments aimed at bolstering renewable energy projects and the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Camila Domonowski of NPR reports that these loans include $6 billion allocated for an EV manufacturing plant in Georgia and nearly $5 billion designated for a midwestern transmission line.

These funds are contingent upon meeting specific financial, environmental, and pro-union requirements set by the Biden administration. However, the timing is critical as these loans must be finalized before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. Vivek Ramaswamy, a political figure poised to recommend budget cuts, criticized the program on social media:
"It is insane to fork over billions of dollars to create thousands of the loan program's office gives loans and charges interest," (02:28). Despite opposition, Domonowski notes that the loan program has been profitable for the government thus far.

Economic Updates: Wall Street, Travel, Gas Prices, and Mortgage Rates

Time Stamp: 03:08

Windsor Johnston provides a roundup of economic and consumer news:

• Stock Market: The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 138 points, reflecting investor caution ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

• Travel Delays: Major airports in Atlanta, Boston, and Denver are experiencing significant flight delays. The day before Thanksgiving is traditionally one of the busiest travel days in the United States.

• Gas Prices: According to AAA, the national average for regular gasoline has decreased by approximately 18 cents per gallon compared to the previous year, offering some relief to consumers.

Kentucky Launches Online Auction for Confiscated Alcohol

Time Stamp: 03:56

Kentucky has initiated its first online auction of alcohol confiscated from closed criminal investigations. John McGarry from member station WEKU reports that the proceeds from this auction will support alcohol abuse prevention programs.

Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association, elaborates:
"Before this new law, alcohol confiscated after criminal investigations had to be destroyed," (03:56). The Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) now permits the auctioning of confiscated alcohol, provided it remains in its original, untampered containers.

Eric Gregory adds:
"Proceeds from the auction will support programs promoting responsible alcohol use on college campuses and elsewhere," (04:19). This initiative aims to generate funds for combating alcohol abuse while preserving valuable spirits.

Mortgage Rates Show Slight Declines

Time Stamp: 04:35

In housing news, Windsor Johnston reports that mortgage rates have seen modest decreases:

• 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Dropped to 6.8%.
• 15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Slightly increased to 6.1%.

These changes, as reported by Freddie Mac, may provide some relief to homebuyers navigating the competitive real estate market in the lead-up to the holiday season.

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