NPR News Now

Episode: NPR News: 12-01-2024 12AM EST
Release Date: December 1, 2024
Host: Dale Willman
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.

1. Hostage Crisis: Hamas Releases Video of Israeli American Prisoner

At the forefront of today’s headlines, Hamas has released a poignant video featuring Idan Alexander, a 20-year-old Israeli American hostage captured during the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023. NPR’s Cat Lansdorf reports that the footage shows Alexander earnestly pleading with President Elect Donald Trump to secure his release.

[00:34] “It's the first time Idan Alexander's family has heard from him since he was captured,” Lansdorf explains. In the video, Alexander addresses Trump as the incoming president, indicating the video's recent production.

Idan’s mother, Yael, addressed the public shortly after the video's release, expressing urgency and hope:

[00:58] “Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had called me, telling me that the conditions for a ceasefire deal in Gaza that would release the remaining hostages was, quote, ripe. Stand by your promise to me,” Yael implored Netanyahu. She emphasized the need for a courageous decision, noting that “there are still 101 hostages remaining in Gaza, at least a third of them are thought to be dead.”

This development highlights the tense negotiations and the precarious situation of the hostages still held in Gaza.

2. Ukraine Seeks NATO Security Guarantees

In international affairs, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a compelling appeal to NATO for security guarantees concerning the parts of Ukraine not currently occupied by Russian forces. NPR’s Joanna Kakissis details Zelensky’s strategy to end the intense phase of the war.

[01:36] Zelensky conveyed to Sky News that NATO should eventually incorporate all of Ukraine into its security alliance, including territories currently under Russian occupation.

Through an interpreter, Zelensky stated:

[01:54] “We should take under NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control, Shuitko. That's what we need to do fast. And then Ukraine can get back the other part of its territory diplomatically.”

Despite Russia’s staunch opposition to Ukraine’s NATO membership and its territorial claims, Zelensky emphasizes that securing protection for controlled areas is essential for Ukraine’s strategic and diplomatic objectives.

3. Trudeau Meets Trump Amidst Tariff Tensions

On the economic front, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently met with President Elect Donald Trump, a meeting that comes amid escalating trade tensions. NPR’s Juliana Kim reports that this encounter follows Trump’s announcement of significant tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods.

[02:33] The in-person meeting between Trudeau and Trump is crucial, given that “Canada is America's largest trading partner, but that might soon change with the incoming Trump administration.” Trump has indicated a desire to impose a “25% tariff on all Canadian goods,” sparking fears of a severe economic downturn in Canada.

Trudeau remains hopeful about bilateral negotiations:

[02:58] “I plan to keep talking with Trump to see how the two can work together,” Trudeau stated. However, domestically, there is a divide as some Canadians advocate for retaliation if Trump proceeds with the tariffs, highlighting the potential strain on Canada-U.S. trade relations.

4. Winter Storm Impacts Western New York and Beyond

Turning to domestic news, a significant winter storm has swept through western New York, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency in several areas. Dale Willman provides an update on the severe weather conditions affecting the region.

[03:14] Nearly “2 feet of snow has already fallen in parts of New York, Ohio, and Michigan,” leading to the closure of Interstate 90 in Pennsylvania and the westbound lanes of the New York Thruway. Additionally, Arctic air has plunged the Northern Plains into bitterly low temperatures, compounding the challenges faced by residents.

Officials urge caution and preparedness as the storm continues to impact daily life and infrastructure across multiple states.

5. Thanksgiving Box Office Surpasses Expectations

In entertainment news, Hollywood is experiencing a stellar Thanksgiving holiday, with movie revenues surpassing expectations. NPR’s Bob Mondello reports on the robust performance at the box office.

[03:48] The industry is witnessing “over indexing,” meaning all films are performing better than anticipated. Disney’s Moana 2 has exceeded projections, initially expected to gross $135 million but now estimated to reach $220 million.

Contrary to expectations, other films like Wicked have enjoyed slight gains despite competition, while Gladiator 2 maintains a strong third-place position. The total box office revenue for the weekend is projected to exceed the previous Thanksgiving record by approximately $100 million, signaling a prosperous period for the film industry.

6. International Treaty Negotiations on Plastic Pollution

Lastly, negotiators are intensifying efforts to finalize an international treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution. Dale Willman provides insights into the ongoing discussions in South Korea.

[04:36] More than 100 countries are in favor of placing a worldwide cap on plastic production, seeking to address the environmental crisis. However, oil-producing nations are pushing back, advocating for agreements that focus solely on waste disposal rather than production limits.

This round of talks represents the final attempt to achieve a consensus before the negotiations conclude on Sunday. The success of this treaty is pivotal in the global fight against plastic pollution, balancing environmental concerns with economic interests.

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