Apple News Today

President Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz or face the destruction of crucial energy infrastructure. Reuters reports on how Iran issued a threat of its own in response. ICE officers are being deployed to airports to assist TSA agents with long lines. Politico reports that the moves comes as funding to reopen DHS remains stalled. Congress may have accidentally turned off tax-filing and payment deadlines for more than three years. Richard Rubin of the Wall Street Journal explains why some people are now seeking refunds for interest and penalties paid. Plus, historic flooding in Hawai‘i prompted mass evacuations, and CBS is shutting down down its news-radio service. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

From Apple News In Conversation: Twitter was created 20 years ago. Many saw the platform as an online public square — a place to connect with strangers, spark viral debates, and even launch careers and social movements. When Elon Musk bought Twitter in 2022, he began reshaping it in his own image, eventually rebranding it as X, and redefining how it operates and what it’s used for. New York Times technology reporters Ryan Mac and Kate Conger, authors of Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter, join Apple News In Conversation guest host Sam Sanders to unpack that transformation, and what it reveals about the future of social media.

The U.S. is considering lifting sanctions on some Iranian oil. The Washington Post’s Evan Halper explains why. Fallout from revelations about Latino civil-rights icon Cesar Chavez have been swift as institutions move to strip his name off of buildings, parks and other sites. Gustavo Arellano of the Los Angeles Times joins to discuss the reaction. The identity of the artist known as Banksy has reportedly been revealed. Blake Morrison of Reuters breaks down how he and his colleagues unraveled the mystery. Plus, why ABC canceled the upcoming season of ‘The Bachelorette,' Sen. Markwayn Mullin moved one step closer to becoming DHS secretary, and a commemorative gold coin featuring President Trump was approved. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee Wednesday. NBC News reports on how Gabbard declined to say whether Iran had posed an imminent threat before the war began. A Times of Israel correspondent says he received death threats about his reporting on a missile strike in Jerusalem from bettors on the prediction site Polymarket. Will Oremus of the Washington Post explains what happened next. The men’s NCAA basketball tournament is underway. The Athletic’s Joe Rexrode shares the stories of past Cinderella’s of the tournament. Plus, a New York Times investigation found that revered Latino civil-rights leader Cesar Chavez sexually abused two underage girls, the Federal Reserve again kept interest rates steady, and why Senegal was stripped of its Africa Cup soccer title. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Iran is cracking down on dissent to prevent an uprising by its citizens. The Wall Street Journal’s Margherita Stancati breaks down the situation Iranians are in. Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin begins the confirmation process today to become the next homeland-security secretary. The Atlantic’s Nick Miroff discusses what Mullin might do with large warehouses the administration purchased to convert into megajails. Cuba is dealing with a major economic crisis and the failure of its antiquated power grid. Carmen Sesin of NBC News joins to discuss what life is like for some Cubans day to day. Plus, why teens are suing Elon Musk’s xAI, the House Oversight Committee officially subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi, and how spas and gyms took over traditional retail space. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

President Trump’s call for military assistance from other countries at the Strait of Hormuz has met with a mostly cool reception. NBC News reports on why. A federal judged tossed out subpoenas issued to the Federal Reserve in a probe over whether Jerome Powell gave false testimony. The Wall Street Journal’s Nick Timiraos breaks down the case. A cash-only market for GLP-1s is bringing down prices for the drugs across the industry. Christopher Rowland of the Washington Post joins to discuss why low prices for a new class of drugs is unusual. Plus, Cuba’s energy grid collapsed leaving millions without power, a judge tossed out much of RFK Jr.’s new vaccine policies, the face of Trump’s immigration crackdown is retiring, and the world record set by Mexico City ahead of the World Cup. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

President Trump wants allies to send send warships to the Strait of Hormuz to provide security for oil tankers. The Guardian on how reports several countries are considering their options. A bipartisan bill aimed at increasing housing supply passed in the Senate overwhelmingly. Sahil Kapur of NBC News breaks down what’s inside the legislation. Extreme weather is about to hit a large swath of the country. Seth Borenstein of the Associated Press explains why blizzard conditions, thunderstorms, and a heat wave are all hitting at once. Plus, airline CEOs called for an end to the DHS shutdown, the mens’ and women’s NCAA basketball tournament brackets are set, and the big winners from last night’s Oscars. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

From Apple News In Conversation: The Academy Awards are finally here. The race to win isn’t just about art — it’s also about creating carefully orchestrated, big-budget campaigns. Katey Rich, awards editor at The Ankler and host of the Prestige Junkie podcast, joins Apple News In Conversation guest host Sam Sanders to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to win an Oscar, who she thinks will bring home the gold this year, and why — even in an era of streaming and shrinking audiences — the awards machine still matters for the movies we love.

Oil markets had a volatile week as concern about the future of the war in Iran grows. The Wall Street Journal’s David Uberti joins to discuss the market chaos. Lebanon is one of several countries that has been drawn into the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Mohamad El Chamaa of the Washington Post explains how more than 800,000 Lebanese people have been displaced during the fighting. The Academy Awards are on Sunday. On this week’s Apple News In Conversation, Katey Rich, awards editor at The Ankler, breaks down what it really takes to win an Oscar. Plus, officials say an attack on a synagogue in Michigan was a targeted act of violence, South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn is running for an 18th term in office, and the 17-time Oscar nominee hoping to end her losing streak this year. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

A continuing military investigation revealed that a deadly strike on a school in Iran was likely carried out by U.S. forces. Idrees Ali of Reuters joins to discuss how the school may have ended up on a target list. Member countries of the International Energy Agency said they will release 400 million barrels of reserve oil as prices surge. The Wall Street Journal’s Matthew Dalton discusses whether the move can bring down the cost of crude. Travel around U.S. is being disrupted as global events coupled with the DHS shutdown have left airports scrambling. Hannah Sampson of the Washington Post explains the challenges facing travelers. Plus, deadly weather ripped through part of the U.S., Iran’s sports minister signaled that it might not compete in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and the U.K. is removing the last hereditary lords from its parliament. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Iran faced another intense day of bombing. The BBC reports attacks on minelaying ships near a vital shipping route. Republicans gathered in Florida for their annual retreat to hash out policy priorities ahead of the midterms. Mia McCarthy of Politico joins to discuss the top issues on the GOP’s agenda. Alabama’s governor commuted the death sentence of a man convicted of a murder he didn’t commit. AL.com’s Savannah Tryens-Fernandes breaks down the case. Plus, a whistleblower says a former DOGE employee took highly sensitive social security data with him to another employer, two candidates emerge in the race to succeed Marjorie Taylor Greene, and how a modern-day treasure hunter ended up in prison. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Iran buried its missile stockpiles deep underground in order to protect them. The Wall Street Journal’s David S. Cloud explains why that may have been a big mistake. Australia granted asylum to five members of the Iranian women’s soccer team over concerns for their safety upon returning to Iran. Nassim Khadem of ABC News breaks down the act of resistance that led the team to seek protection. The Trump administration wants to keep several coal plants operational despite some having reached their intended retirement dates. NPR’s Sam Brasch joins to discuss how utilities are pushing back. Plus, authorities in New York filed charges against two suspects in a planned attack outside the NYC mayor’s residence, ticket-selling giant Live Nation and the DOJ reached an antitrust settlement, and how alcohol consumption among chimps could provide a clue as to why humans love booze. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Iran has a new supreme leader. Reuters reports that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the deceased Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was chosen, in what many see as a direct rebuke of President Trump. The BBC lays out what’s known about the new leader. The ongoing war is starting to take its toll on the global economy. David J. Lynch of the Washington Post joins to discuss how Americans might soon feel the impact. Demands for accountability are increasing after an airstrike hit a school in southern Iran at the outset of the war. Chantal Da Silva of NBC News breaks down what the evidence shows about who may be responsible. Plus, deadly tornadoes ripped through multiple states over the weekend, a federal judge invalidated mass layoffs at Voice of America, and why Olympic champion figure skater Alysa Liu is skipping out on the sport’s next big competition. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

President Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem Thursday. The Wall Street Journal’s Michelle Hackman breaks down the factors that went into the decision. Iran’s next leader could be a son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Parisa Hafezi, Iran bureau chief for Reuters, joins to discuss why that might frustrate some Iranians. The Formula 1 season kicks off in Australia this weekend. Apple News Sports editor Shaker Samman explains how new rule changes might change things on the track. Plus, the Justice Department published some missing Epstein files related to Trump, a curling scandal hit the Paralympics, and the new regulation United Airlines hopes will make your flight a little more peaceful. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Travelers across the Middle East who became stranded when fighting in Iran began are having trouble finding their way home. Bloomberg reports on how many who are stuck are improvising ways out as the war zone expands. The U.S.’s closest ally in the war, Israel, has very big stake in its outcome. Tia Goldenberg of the Associated Press explains why Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wagered big on a victory against Tehran. Midterm-elections season kicked off with closely watched primaries in Texas. NBC News Chief Data Analyst Steve Kornacki joins to dissect the results on both sides. Plus, the House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena Attorney General Pam Bondi to answer questions about the Epstein files, a judge ordered the Trump administration to issue tariff refunds, and and a game of social-media one-upmanship between the CEOs of some of America’s biggest burger chains. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

A new wave of attacks were carried out against Iran, as the war in the region moves into a fifth day. Reuters reports that retaliatory strikes hit multiple areas including the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia. Oil prices continued to surge as a result of ongoing fighting. Evan Halper of the Washington Post joins to discuss why what happens to a key shipping route could affect global fuel prices. And the BBC reports on how European countries are struggling to hold a united position on the war. Plus, a Georgia man was convicted for giving his son a gun allegedly used in a school shooting, the labor secretary’s two top aides are resigning, and why buying a dinosaur has become a new trend in the auction world. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecelia Lei.

The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran has drawn in countries across the Middle East. AFP has the latest. The Wall Street Journal’s Alex Ward joins to discuss President Trump’s messaging about the conflict. Iranians in the country are having different reactions to the war and the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. NPR’s Jane Arraf describes how some are processing the last few days. Plus, Texas voters head to the polls for a contentious GOP primary, and video of Bill and Hillary Clinton’s depositions in the House Jeffrey Epstein investigation was released. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

The U.S. and Israel carried out a massive military campaign over the weekend against Iran. The Wall Street Journal’s Jared Malsin breaks down the operation. Lawmakers were briefed on the Iran attacks but the strikes were carried out without congressional approval. NPR reports on how that has put new urgency into an effort to reign in President Trump’s military powers. Los Angeles is the home to the largest population of Iranians outside of Iran. Corinne Purtill of the Los Angeles Times joins to discuss how they are reacting. Plus, a mass shooting in Austin left three dead including the gunman, OpenAI is stepping into a bigger role at the Pentagon, and how one Planned Parenthood location is offering spa-like treatments to generate revenue. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

From Apple News In Conversation: This is an episode from our archives. For more than a century, Johnson & Johnson has billed itself as one of the most trusted companies in American history. But, in a stunning investigation, journalist Gardiner Harris documents decades of misconduct and malfeasance by the health-care conglomerate. Harris’s book is called No More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson & Johnson. He spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about why he says the company has “knowingly contributed to the deaths and grievous injuries of millions” through products including baby powder, a fentanyl patch, and a cancer drug. Johnson & Johnson has denied many of these allegations.

Following the Supreme Court decision on tariffs, big companies including FedEx, Dyson, and L’Oréal are suing to recoup money paid. NPR’s Alina Selyukh explains why getting it back could be tricky. Some progress appears to have been made in the latest round of talks between the U.S. and Iran. Olivia Le Poidevin of Reuters joins to discuss why the two sides are still far apart. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is under intense pressure to confront drug cartels. Emily Green of Reuters dissects how the killing of Mexico’s most powerful drug lord was a risky move. Plus, Hillary Clinton gave a deposition in the House’s Epstein investigation, why Netflix is backing out of the deal to buy Warner Bros., and Pope Leo tells priests not to use AI in homilies. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

President Trump’s nominee to be the next surgeon general appeared before the Senate health committee. NBC News’s Aria Bendix breaks down the testimony. The Pentagon is at odds with Anthropic, the company that built the only AI model approved for classified military use. Dave Lawler of Axios joins to discuss the ultimatum Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued the company. A whistleblower who recently trained ICE recruits testified to Congress about how the agency is cutting corners on instruction. The Washington Post’s David Nakamura explains why concerns are rising over how fast some agents are being put into the field. Plus, officials in Cuba said its coast guard killed four people on a Florida-registered speedboat, economist Larry Summers is stepping down as a Harvard professor over his connections to Jeffrey Epstein, and how Rolex created one of the hardest schools to get into. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

President Trump delivered his State of the Union. NBC News’s Sahil Kapur was in the press gallery and gives us his takeaways. Deadly cartel violence in Mexico has raised concerns over security at the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The Athletic’s Felipe Cardenas explains what officials are saying about the risks and why FIFA is standing behind Mexico. Voters in Switzerland could soon vote to cap the country’s population at 10 million people as a way to restrict immigration. Bastian Benrath-Wright of Bloomberg joins to discuss why major businesses in Switzerland oppose the measure. Plus, FedEx is suing the Trump administration for a tariff refund, why the director of the Louvre quit, and how an innocent snowball fight turned political. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei and Gideon Resnick.

The Pentagon says an attack on Iran may lead to significant risks for U.S. soldiers, allies and resources. The Wall Street Journal’s Alex Ward joins to discuss what one of the military’s top leaders is saying about the situation. Netflix’s bid to buy Warner Brothers just got a little more complicated. Deadline’s Dominic Patten explains why the DOJ is now involved. GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic have exploded in popularity for their weight-loss effects. Dhruv Khullar of the New Yorker considers how they could be used to treat conditions like addiction. Plus, record snowfall hit parts of the northeast as a massive winter storm moved through, Mexico is experiencing more violence after the country’s top drug lord was killed, and President Trump prepares for his State of the Union address. Today’s episode was hosted by Yasmeen Khan.

Drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” was killed in a military raid in Mexico over the weekend. Laura Gottesdiener of Reuters explores how the operation went down. President Trump wasted no time imposing a new global tariff after the Supreme Court struck down his previous ones. Courtenay Brown of Axios joins to discuss what comes next for businesses and consumers. The Winter Olympics concluded Sunday night, and it was a pretty good showing for Team USA overall. The Athletic’s Matt Futterman explains how a series of injuries and other mishaps kept the Americans from a historic performance. Plus, authorities shot and killed a man after he breached the perimeter at President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, New York braced for another big snowstorm, and how Punch the orphaned macaque captured the internet’s heart. Today’s episode was hosted by Yasmeen Kahn.

From Apple News In Conversation: When she was 28, Laura Mauldin became a full-time caregiver for her romantic partner with leukemia — an experience that exposed how deeply America’s health-care system depends on the unpaid labor of loved ones. Now a disability scholar, Mauldin explores this hidden reality in her new book, In Sickness and in Health: Love Stories From the Front Lines of America’s Caregiving Crisis. She sat down with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to discuss how gaps in the medical system leave families shouldering the burden of care — and how couples navigate that strain while maintaining their sense of partnership and dignity.

Tensions with Iran are escalating as U.S. forces continue to build up in the region. The Wall Street Journal’s Alex Ward breaks down a new option that President Trump is weighing against Tehran. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct while in public office. Fiona Hamilton of The Times of London joins to discuss why. A proposed rent-control law in Massachusetts has local Democrats. The Wall Street Journal’s Jared Mitovich explains why lawmakers in the state are at odds. Plus, Trump’s new “Board of Peace” met for the first time, a federal advisory commission approved plans for the new White House ballroom, and a big night for Team USA on the ice. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

A deadly avalanche killed at least eight people in the Lake Tahoe region in Northern California. KQED’s Sarah Wright explains what happened, and the challenges that come with avalanche rescue. A massive amount of wastewater spewed into the Potomac River following a sewage-line break in Maryland a month ago. Dana Hedgpeth of the Washington Post breaks down how the spill has become a political dispute. Nordic combined is the only Winter Olympic sport where women don’t compete. USA Today’s Chris Bumbaca joins to discuss how some athletes are trying to change that. Plus, a billionaire former CEO said he was conned by Epstein, Mark Zuckerberg testified in a landmark trial over claims social media makes kids addicted, and a judge finally settled the debate over boneless chicken wings. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

In Trump’s second term, ICE has ramped up use of a program that deputizes local police forces to participate in immigration enforcement. NPR’s Jaclyn Diaz discusses the expansion of the program, known as 287(g). Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is calling for the resignation of the chair of the 2028 Olympics after his name showed up in the Epstein files. Dakota Smith of the Los Angeles Times explains the fallout. Civil-rights leader Jesse Jackson died on Tuesday. Chicago Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg joins to talk about Jackson’s life and legacy. Plus, a federal judge ruled that Kilmar Abrego Garcia can’t be arrested again, what Stephen Colbert says about why he couldn’t air a certain interview, and the American bobsledder who’s become the oldest-ever Winter Olympic champion. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecelia Lei.

The U.S. government undertook a covert mission to keep Iranian protesters connected to the internet with Starlink equipment. Alex Ward of the Wall Street Journal explains the risks of using Starlink inside Iran. Several letters written by detained children describe what life is like inside ICE’s Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas. ProPublica’s Mica Rosenberg has the details. This week marked two years since Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny died in custody. The Associated Press reports on new evidence surrounding the cause of death. Plus, at least two people are dead after a shooting a high-school hockey game, Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall has died, the FBI said it won’t share evidence related to the death of Alex Pretti with Minnesota state officials, and how one Girl Scout smashed the all-time cookie-selling record. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Global leaders and influential power brokers gathered at the Munich Security Conference over the weekend. Reuters reports on how Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s speech struck a tone of unity. Early voting is underway in the race to win the House seat previously held by Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene. Politico’s Alec Hernandez joins to discuss the crowded field. Under an executive order from President Trump, federal agencies are deploying AI as a way to operate more efficiently. Ian Duncan of the Washington Post details how some departments are using the technology and the concerns it is raising. Plus, Southwest Airlines is getting some pushback for recent policy changes, and how cheating accusations in curling at the Winter Olympics unfolded. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

From Apple News In Conversation: A battle is underway over some of Hollywood’s most valuable properties. Paramount Skydance and Netflix are vying for control of Warner Bros. Discovery — the parent company of CNN, HBO, and a vast library of iconic films and TV shows. New York magazine features writer Reeves Wiedeman recently profiled David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Skydance and son of tech billionaire Larry Ellison. Wiedeman sits down with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to explain the motivations behind the tech heir’s business moves, how consolidation is reshaping the entertainment industry, and what it means for viewers’ screens — and wallets.

Another partial shutdown appears to be certain after lawmakers failed to pass a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. ABC News reports on how Democrats blocked a potential deal after their demands weren't met. President Trump revoked a landmark scientific finding regarding greenhouse-gas emissions. Marianne Lavelle of Inside Climate News breaks down what to expect next. Allegations of bias were lodged at Olympic ice-dance judges after a team from France edged out an American duo. NBC News’s Rohan Nadkarni explains what’s behind the controversy. Plus, why a judge blocked the Pentagon from punishing Sen. Mark Kelly, and how snowboarding superstar Chloe Kim just missed out on Olympic history. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Airspace over El Paso, Texas, was closed abruptly late Tuesday night. The Washington Post’s Dan Lamothe talks through what we know about the sudden disruption. President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington on Wednesday. Sam Metz of the Associated Press joins to discuss the meeting and how Israel is taking steps to exert more control over the West Bank. More people than ever are in ICE detention under Trump’s immigration crackdown. The Associated Press’s Gisela Salomon breaks down reports of substandard conditions inside some ICE facilities. Plus, details are emerging about the mass shooting in British Columbia, what the new jobs report signals about the economy, and the interesting day job of one of Team USA’s Olympic curlers. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

A surge of measles cases has health experts around the country worried. Erika Edwards of NBC News breaks down the numbers and explains how current outbreaks got so bad. The acting director of ICE defended the agency’s actions on Capitol Hill Tuesday. The Washington Post reports on the contentious hearing. A community in Montana that overwhelmingly supported Trump is grappling with the detainment of a popular local auto mechanic by U.S. Border Patrol. Nora Mabie of Montana Free Press discusses the case. Plus, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick admitted he maintained contact with Jeffrey Epstein for years longer than he previously claimed, an unsealed affidavit revealed the FBI’s reasoning for confiscating election materials from Fulton County, and Team USA’s breakout men’s figure-skating star takes a big lead in the individual competition. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

Cuba is on the brink of economic disaster following U.S. actions in Venezuela. The Wall Street Journal’s José de Córdoba breaks down how the island nation got to this point. The January jobs report is scheduled to come out tomorrow, and one White House adviser says it’s not going to be pretty. Justin Lahart of the Wall Street Journal joins to discuss the factors making life hard for job-seekers. U.S. Olympic figure skater Maxim Naumov lost his parents in the air crash over Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. The Washington Post’s Robert Samuels tells us how competition helped Naumov overcome the tragedy. Plus, the U.S. is seeking to overturn Steve Bannon’s Jan. 6–related conviction, JD Vance visits Armenia to promote a peace deal, and how some Olympic medals are sustaining unexpected damage.

The Epstein documents are causing political crises abroad, with the British prime minister fighting for his political life. Politico unpacks why. The sheer number of court cases tied to President Trump’s immigration crackdown is putting a heavy strain on lawyers representing the government. The Wall Street Journal’s Sadie Gurman explains the immense pressure U.S. attorney's offices are under. So-called forever chemicals, or PFAS, are increasingly contaminating private-drinking-water wells. Michael Phillis of the Associated Press joins to talk about how the issue is spreading and why it's so difficult to stop. Plus, U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn breaks her leg in a crash at the Winter Olympics, Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai is sentenced to 20 years in jail, and the Seattle Seahawks are this year’s Super Bowl champions. Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.

From Apple News In Conversation: Bad Bunny is one of the most popular artists in the world. He’s won six Grammys — including Album of the Year for his latest record, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, the first Spanish-language album to take home the award — and this weekend, he’ll headline the Super Bowl halftime show. Suzy Exposito, an editor at De Los, has followed Bad Bunny’s rise for years and interviewed him several times. She joins Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to talk about his upbringing in Puerto Rico, his ascent to global stardom, and how he’s reshaping pop music.

Mass layoffs at the Washington Post have shocked the media industry. Semafor’s Max Tani discusses the cuts and explains why the paper has struggled financially. Major U.S. trade partners are increasingly turning elsewhere as a result of unpredictable relations with President Trump. The Wall Street Journal’s Kim Mackrael joins to discuss how China benefits from the uncertainty. Plus, the Super Bowl is on Sunday, and it’s a rematch of what many consider one of the best Super Bowls in recent history. Apple News sports editor Shaker Samman breaks down this year’s matchup. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Democrats have laid out their demands as lawmakers in Washington negotiate a deal on ICE accountability. Sahil Kapur of NBC News explains the breadth of those demands and the tight timeline Congress is on. A recent drone attack by Russia left more than 1,000 apartment buildings in Kyiv without power. Politico’s Veronika Melkozerova joins to discuss how Ukrainians are surviving winter after continued attacks on their electricity grid. A warming climate is putting future Winter Olympic sites at risk of no longer being able to host the event. The Washington Post’s Janice Kai Chen breaks down the challenges cities face and the solutions being proposed. Plus, the Supreme Court cleared the way for a new congressional map in California, the Washington Post is laying off a third of its newsroom, and how Buddhist monks are spreading a message of peace through walking. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

U.S. forces shot down an Iranian drone as it approached an American aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. Idrees Ali of Reuters joins to discuss the incident, as Iranian and U.S. leaders in the region prepare to meet. Interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez hosted the U.S.’s top diplomat in the country this week to review the Trump administration’s roadmap for the oil industry and stabilization. The Wall Street Journal’s Ian Lovett explains the game of wait and see that Rodríguez appears to be playing with Trump. Data suggests that immigration authorities are increasingly detaining children. The Washington Post’s María Luisa Paúl dissects the numbers, and explains how the recent apprehension and detention of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos became a flashpoint. Plus, lawmakers passed a spending package to end the partial government shutdown, Renee Good’s brothers testified before Congress about her death, and how fans helped a figure skater bring some unique music to the Winter Olympics. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

ICE is using biometric tracers, cellphone-hacking tools, and other surveillance methods to track protesters and suspects. The Washington Post’s Eva Dou explains what the technologies do and how they affect the broader population in more ways than expected. The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt opened in a limited capacity this week after two years. Sam Metz of the Associated Press joins to discuss logistical questions over who and what can cross the border. The latest Epstein files release contained the names of a number of prominent international figures. The BBC reports on some of them. Plus, Georgia’s Fulton County is suing over the FBI’s seizure of 2020 elections material, U.S. and Iranian officials are set to meet later this week, and how inflation is impacting Valentine’s Day candy. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

The partial government shutdown isn’t likely to end until at least Tuesday. The Wall Street Journal’s Natalie Andrews breaks down the sticking points lawmakers are negotiating. A new batch of documents from the Epstein files were released. The Associated Press reports on how the Department of Justice isn’t expected to file any new charges as a result. Some Olympic athletes don’t make enough money to afford basic living expenses. Fortune reports on how that could change starting this year after a massive gift to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Plus, why the Kennedy Center is shutting down for two years, a 5-year-old detained by ICE has been released, and the big winners at this year’s Grammys. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

From Apple News In Conversation: Since President Trump took office just over a year ago, federal immigration enforcement has substantially expanded — nowhere more visibly than in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where federal officers have killed two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Widespread protests, scrutiny of ICE operations, and questions about accountability have intensified in recent weeks. Caitlin Dickerson, staff writer for The Atlantic, sat down with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to discuss what’s happening inside ICE today — and what these latest developments could mean going forward.

Senate Democrats, Republicans and the White House struck deal to avert a government shutdown over funding for ICE. In this week’s Apple News In Conversation The Atlantic’s Caitlin Dickerson explores what deadly clashes between protestors and ICE could mean for the agency During a national uprising in Iran the government gunned down dozens of its own citizens who were protesting in the town of Rasht. The Washington Post’s Yeganeh Torbati joins to discuss the aftermath of the incident. Tax season is upon us and there are some significant tax law changes that could affect returns this year. Ashlea Ebeling of The Wall Street Journal breaks down what filers need to know. Plus, how a man impersonating an FBI agent tried to free Luigi Mangione, life expectancy in the U.S. is up, and what inspired a woman who had never rowed to travel across the Atlantic solo. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

The Federal Reserve voted to keep rates steady on Wednesday. Bloomberg looks into the decision. Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee about Venezuela. NPR reports on how Rubio faced intense scrutiny over U.S. involvement in the country. Some of the people convicted then pardoned for their part in the Jan. 6 attack want financial penalties they paid to the government returned. The Washington Post’s Beth Reinhard joins to discuss what emboldened them to ask for their money back. Plus, the FBI raided the election offices of a key 2020 battleground county in Georgia, the agents who shot Renee Good and Alex Pretti have been put on leave, and why so many people are suddenly obsessed with beans. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

U.S. Border Patrol “commander at large” Gregory Bovino was removed from his position following the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The Atlantic’s Nick Miroff joins to unpack Bovino’s demotion and ICE’s larger recruiting push. A man from Cuba recently became the third detainee at a single Texas facility to die in ICE custody. Michael Biesecker of the Associated Press discusses the case. TikTok experienced serious technical difficulties just as its new ownership group took control. The Verge’s Emma Roth breaks down the hurdles it faces. Plus, why the U.S. population grew at a slower rate last year, Amazon is abandoning its Go and Fresh grocery stores, and Southwest Airlines passengers bid farewell to open seating. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Changes are coming to immigration operations in Minnesota after President Trump said he and Governor Tim Walz had a productive phone conversation. Politico reports that border czar Tom Homan will take over operations, while the top Border Patrol commander is being demoted. As calls for accountability for the immigration agents who shot and killed Alex Pretti and Renee Good grow, prosecutions might be hard to come by. Jack Queen of Reuters breaks down the longstanding protections in place that shield law-enforcement officers. Some parents allege that social-media apps designed to keep teens coming back are responsible for a mental-health crisis among young people. The Washington Post’s Naomi Nix joins to discuss lawsuits filed by parents over the issue and why they’ll be tough cases to win. Plus, a deep freeze will set in as the nation digs out of this weekend’s winter storm, leading pediatricians are breaking with the CDC on childhood-vaccine guidance, and why virtually no one knows how WD-40 is made. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Immigration agents shot and killed another person as unrest continues in Minneapolis. The Wall Street Journal’s Mariah Timms joins to discuss what’s happening on the ground as tensions escalate. Congressional leaders are reacting to the latest shooting in Minneapolis. CNBC reports on how a government shutdown is now more likely as a result. The Associated Press reports a growing number of Republicans are also calling for a larger investigation into the incident. A brutal winter storm has left several people dead and hundreds of thousands without power. USA Today has live updates. Plus, China’s top general is under investigation amid claims he leaked secrets to the U.S., Venezuela released another round of political prisoners over the weekend, and the Super Bowl matchup is set. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

From Apple News In Conversation: New Yorker staff writer Elizabeth Kolbert has been reporting on climate and the environment for more than 25 years. In her work, she captures both the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world and the unsettling truth about what humans are doing to it. Her latest book, Life on a Little-Known Planet: Dispatches From a Changing World, is a collection of essays from her decades-long career. Kolbert spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about the stories that have shaped her reporting — and what they’ve taught her about a rapidly changing planet.

ICE detained a 5-year-old boy at a school in suburban Minneapolis, prompting outrage from the community. Minnesota Public Radio’s Elizabeth Shockman joins to talk about the apprehension, and how the Trump administration is defending it. Crime across the country seems to be dropping at fast pace. Henry Grabar of The Atlantic discusses why. On Oscar-nomination day, the vampire film ‘Sinners’ broke the record for most nominations by a single movie. Variety’s Clayton Davis breaks down this year’s nominees. Plus, former special counsel Jack Smith testified before Congress about his two indictments of President Trump, TikTok finalized a deal to keep operating in the U.S., and how one reporter captured the beauty of nature and an unsettling truth about what humans are doing to it. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

There are signs of a possible deal on Greenland, after a dizzying 24 hours at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The Wall Street Journal details how it happened, and Fox News gets reaction from NATO’s secretary general. Record-breaking cold and messy winter weather is expected to hit a large swath of the country in the coming days. Bloomberg’s Lauren Rosenthal joins to discuss what’s in store and how to prepare. After protests that killed more than 3,000 people, some Iranians say they are open to the U.S. removing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Atlantic’s Arash Azizi shares what Iranians told him about what they want from Trump and the U.S. Plus, ICE is training officers to enter homes without judicial warrants, a former police officer charged over his response to the Uvalde shooting was found not guilty, and Sundance is kicking off its final festival to be held in Utah. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.