NPR News: 08-17-2026 4PM EDT
Summary
This NPR News Now episode covers the expiration of U.S.-Iran peace talks amid Strait of Hormuz disputes and a pause in Big Bend border wall construction. It reports on record-low water levels at Lake Powell and Lake Mead, threatening power and water supplies. Additional stories include falling U.S. stock markets, sluggish Chinese consumer spending, and declining kindergarten vaccination rates across the country.
Topics discussed
U.S.-Iran peace talks deadline expires with no negotiations
CBP pauses border construction in Big Bend National Park
Lake Powell hits record low, threatening power and water supply
Energy Secretary discusses lowering gasoline prices
China's economy sluggish despite export boom
Kindergarten vaccination coverage falls in the U.S.
Up First preview: Midterms and Middle East updates
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