U.S. Strikes Inside Venezuela, Iran Protests, Flu Cases Surge - Up First Recap

Podcast: Up First

Published: 2025-12-31

Duration: 15 minutes

Guests: Franco Ordóñez, Jackie Northam, Gabriela Emmanuel

Summary

The U.S. conducted its first known strike inside Venezuela targeting drug trafficking, Iran faces widespread protests due to economic hardship, and the U.S. is experiencing a severe flu season with a new strain spreading rapidly.

What Happened

The U.S. has carried out its first known strike inside Venezuela, targeting a dock used for drug trafficking. President Trump stated this move aims to send a message to Nicolas Maduro, but critics warn it could escalate tensions and has been conducted without congressional oversight. Franco Ordóñez, NPR White House correspondent, highlighted the lack of briefing to Congress and the potential risks involved.

In Iran, significant protests have erupted across multiple cities due to economic struggles, including soaring inflation and a severe depreciation of the currency. The protests have been fueled by sanctions impacting the country's oil exports and general economic health. Jackie Northam from NPR noted that while these protests are significant, they have not yet reached the level of the 2022 uprising.

Iranian security forces have begun cracking down on these protests, with reports of tear gas being used against demonstrators. The country's moderate president has urged the government to address the protesters' legitimate demands. The situation remains tense, with concerns over further escalation.

The U.S. flu season is proving particularly severe, with the CDC reporting around 7.5 million cases so far. A new strain, subclade K, is spreading rapidly, partly due to a mismatch with this year's flu vaccine. Despite the vaccine's lower efficacy against this strain, it still helps prevent severe cases.

Gabriela Emmanuel from NPR discussed how the flu's spread has been exacerbated by lower vaccination rates, partly due to insufficient federal push for vaccinations. She emphasized that traditional preventive measures like hand washing and masking remain effective.

The episode also touched on the broader implications of these events, highlighting how geopolitical tensions and health crises are shaping the current global landscape. The discussions underscored the complex interplay between domestic policies and international relations.

Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and proactive, whether it's by understanding geopolitical dynamics or taking steps to protect against the flu. The episode concluded with a reminder of the importance of public support for NPR, especially as it enters a new era without federal funding.

Key Insights