Trump's National Guard Power Play & Iran-Israel Tensions What You Need to Know NOW

Court Backs Trump's Control of National Guard; Israel-Iran War Update

Good morning. Let's dive into today's pressing headlines, covering a significant court ruling and the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Trump's National Guard Control Upheld

In a significant legal victory for the former president, a federal appeals court in California has sided with Donald Trump, affirming his authority to maintain control over approximately **4,000 California National Guard troops** in Los Angeles. This decision effectively blocks, at least for now, California Governor Gavin Newsom's efforts to regain command of the Guard.

The troops were initially deployed by the Trump administration nearly two weeks prior, ostensibly in response to protests in LA, which themselves were triggered by immigration raids conducted in the region.

Key Takeaways from the Court Ruling:

• The unanimous ruling came from the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
• The court's 38-page ruling suggests that the situation in LA likely justified the president's use of the California National Guard to enforce federal immigration laws.
• The court explicitly emphasized that its decision was limited to Trump's authority to deploy the Guard and does not dictate how the troops can be used once deployed.
• Trump hailed the decision as a "big win" with implications beyond California, potentially influencing his ability to deploy the National Guard in other states.

Laura Fitzgerald of CapRadio, an NPR network station, noted that the ruling wasn't entirely unexpected, as the judges appeared skeptical of the state's arguments during the hearing.

Israel-Iran War: A Decision Looms

The White House has announced that Donald Trump will decide within the next two weeks whether the U.S. will take military action against Iran. This development occurs amidst growing internal pressure, with some vocal supporters expressing concern that intervention could betray his "America First" principles.

Tucker Carlson, formerly of Fox News, even suggested that the former president's legacy could be at stake based on this critical decision. The White House, however, dismisses any connection between the decision's timing and this criticism.

Perspectives within the MAGA World:

• Not all Trump supporters oppose U.S. involvement. Some, like Fox News host Mark Levin, have vocally advocated for U.S. support of Israel.
• While many Trump supporters oppose involvement in conflicts like those in Ukraine or Taiwan, some religious conservatives make an exception for Israel, considering it the Holy Land, according to Republican pollster Jon McHenry.

European diplomats are currently engaged in meetings with Iran's foreign minister in Geneva, seeking a diplomatic resolution to the escalating conflict. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hinted that Israel may proceed with attacks on Iranian nuclear sites even without U.S. participation.

Reports indicate that Israeli strikes have resulted in over **650 deaths in Iran**, while Iranian missiles have reportedly killed **24 people in Israel**.

Daniel Estrin of NPR reports that European diplomats, while calling for restraint, acknowledge Israel's right to protect its security – a stance contrasting with Europe's calls for an end to the Gaza war. One source familiar with the conflict believes that Israeli forces could potentially destroy Fordo, Iran's most fortified nuclear site, independently.

Experts suggest that while U.S. "bunker-busting" bombs could inflict significant damage, they might not completely eliminate Iran's future nuclear weapons development capabilities.

Beyond the Headlines: A Note on Healing

Amidst the political and geopolitical complexities, it's important to remember the human element. Doctors Without Borders launched a project in 2022 to address the psychological wounds in the remote Alto Baudó region of western Colombia. Through art and therapeutic rituals, like mending torn photographs, the project aims to help individuals cope with the trauma of years of violence.

Weekend Picks: Entertainment & More

Looking for something to do this weekend? NPR has you covered:

• Movies: Check out the new Pixar film, Elio, or explore other new releases.
• TV: Dive into new shows like The Waterfront or the King of the Hill revival.
• Books: Add some mystery and suspense to your reading list with these new novels.
• Music: Bruce Springsteen is releasing seven new records! Get ready with this listening guide.
• Games: Get the lowdown on upcoming game releases from NPR's Vincent Acovino.
• Quiz: Test your knowledge with NPR's weekly quiz.

Before You Go: 3 Quick Bites

• The Labubu plush toys have become a global phenomenon.
• A study links social media and video game addiction to increased suicidal thoughts in children.
• A man reconnects with memories of his late mother with the help of strangers at a diner.

Thank you for reading. Stay informed, stay engaged, and remember to find moments of connection and healing in your own lives.

Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/06/20/g-s1-73686/up-first-newsletter-california-national-guard-trump-israel-iran-war