NPR News Now: December 9, 2024, 8 PM EST

NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update on critical global and national issues in its December 9, 2024 episode. Hosted by NPR, this five-minute segment encompassed significant developments in Syria, U.S. economic policies, Asian markets, South Korean politics, and cultural honors in the United States. Below is a detailed summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented in the episode.

1. Syria: Transition and Stability Efforts

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Jawad Rizala and Michelle Kellerman

The episode opened with an in-depth report on the evolving situation in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Jeanine Herbst highlighted President Biden's administration's vigilance in monitoring the militant group ISIS to prevent exploitation of the current power vacuum. The United States has intensified its military efforts, executing dozens of strikes targeting over 75 ISIS strongholds in Syria.

Deposition of Assad:

• With Assad and his family fleeing to Moscow, there is a significant shift in Syria's political landscape.

Return of Syrian Refugees:

• Over a million Syrians displaced by the 13-year civil war are now beginning to return home, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's recovery.

On-the-Ground Perspective:

• Reporter Jawad Rizala provided a vivid description from a Lebanese border crossing:

  "The road to Syria once we reach close now to the border crossing is full with traffic, cars with Syrian revolutionary flags, people cheering people on the sides of the road, cheering them on as well. Everyone is excited." ([00:51])

United Nations' Role:

• Michelle Kellerman reported on the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Gare Pedersen's perspective:

  "It's a watershed moment," Pedersen remarked, emphasizing the UN's call for dialogues to establish an inclusive government.

• Pedersen expressed "cautious hope for a new chapter to begin" ([01:26]), highlighting the potential for a transitional government now that Assad is no longer in power. Despite challenges, including the designation of the leading rebel group as a terrorist organization by the UN, Pedersen noted the willingness of various armed groups and activists to protect state institutions and prioritize dialogue.

2. U.S. Economic Policies: Trump's Tariff Proposals

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Luke Garrett
Guest: President Elect Donald Trump

The discussion shifted to U.S. economic policies, particularly focusing on President-elect Donald Trump's advocacy for increasing tariffs on major trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. Jeanine Herbst introduced the segment by noting that many of Trump's previous tariffs remain active and that economists predict these measures will lead to higher prices for American consumers.

Trump's Defense of Tariffs:

• In an interview with NBC News, Trump maintained his stance on tariff hikes but acknowledged potential price increases:

  "I can't guess. I can't guarantee tomorrow." ([02:24])

• He dismissed estimates from the Tax Foundation, which calculated that tariffs imposed during his first term cost Americans approximately $80 billion, asserting that these costs were borne by consumers:

  "They cost the consumer, quote, nothing," Trump stated and emphasized using tariffs for strategic foreign policy objectives ([02:35]).

Economic Analysis:

• Luke Garrett pointed out that tariffs could address broader issues related to international conflicts, albeit without providing specific historical examples:

  "They also solve another problem. If we were going to have problems having to do with wars and having to do with other things, tariffs. I have stopped wars with tariffs." ([02:47])

• Trump did not elaborate on instances where tariffs have directly influenced the cessation of wars ([02:57]).

3. Financial Markets and South Korean Political Developments

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Elizabeth Blair

The episode briefly touched upon the fluctuating Asian markets, noting a slight uptick in Japan's Nikkei and a marginal decline in the Asia Dow. Concurrently, U.S. futures remained relatively stable.

South Korean Politics:

• Significant political news emerged from South Korea, where former Defense Minister Kim Jong Un was detained by prosecutors. The detention followed his recommendation of a brief martial law imposition to President Yoon Sung Yeol.

  • Kim Jong Un voluntarily appeared at a prosecutor's office, coinciding with President Yoon's avoidance of an opposition-led impeachment attempt.

  • The impeachment bid was thwarted as ruling party members boycotted the floor vote, preventing the necessary two-thirds majority to suspend Yoon's presidential powers ([03:03]).

4. Kennedy Center Honors Gala

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Elizabeth Blair

The episode concluded with a spotlight on the upcoming Kennedy Center Honors Gala scheduled for December 22nd in Washington, D.C. NPR's Elizabeth Blair detailed the event, highlighting celebrated figures in the arts.

Notable Honorees:

• Francis Ford Coppola: Described by Kennedy Center Chairman David Rubenstein as a "masterful storyteller," Coppola is recognized for iconic films like American Graffiti and Apocalypse Now ([04:06]).

  "I love the smell of napalm in the Morning." ([04:19]) – A memorable quote from Apocalypse Now cited during the tribute.

• Arturo Sandoval and Bonnie Raitt: Both are acknowledged for their musical achievements, including multiple Grammy awards and impactful contributions to American culture ([04:19]).

Broadcast Details:

• The gala will be aired on CBS and streamed on Paramount, offering audiences nationwide the opportunity to witness the celebration of these distinguished artists ([04:21]).

Market and Political Updates

Jeanine Herbst wrapped up the segment by updating that U.S. futures were trading slightly negative, with Nasdaq futures down approximately 11 points ([04:48]).

This episode of NPR News Now effectively encapsulated pivotal international developments, economic policy debates, market movements, and cultural celebrations, providing listeners with a well-rounded overview of the day's most pressing issues.