NPR News: 07-18-2026 12PM EDT
Summary
This NPR News Now episode covers escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s control has reduced ship traffic to a three-week low amid conflicting reports of mine strikes. The U.S. and Iran continued trading airstrikes for the seventh consecutive night, while Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian warehouses killed at least seven people. Other stories include wildfire smoke affecting the eastern U.S., a major fire destroying over 100 homes in Norway, and El Salvador becoming the first Central American country to eliminate trachoma.
Topics discussed
Iran's control over Strait of Hormuz and shipping tolls
U.S. and Iran trade airstrikes for seventh night
Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian warehouses
Canadian wildfire smoke affecting eastern U.S.
Major fire destroys homes in southern Norway
El Salvador eliminates trachoma as public health issue
Josh Kerr breaks men's mile world record in London
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