The United States and Iran say the Strait of Hormuz is now fully open to commercial vessels. The announcement came from both President Trump and Iran’s foreign minister. Iran said the Strait of Hormuz is “completely open” in line with the ceasefire in Lebanon and that it would stay open for the remaining period of the ceasefire. The president said the strait is “ready for business and full passage.” However, he said the U-S naval blockade of Iranian ports “will remain in full force and effect” until a peace agreement with Iran is finalized.

Top News Stories Apr 17, 2026 – 10:00 AM CDT

A group of House Republicans rejected President Trump’s request to renew a controversial surveillance program without revisions to the law. The president wanted a clean 18-month extension of FISA, which U-S spy agencies use to collect and analyze communications without a warrant. Several Republicans pushed for greater protection for Americans and voted down the measure. They also rejected a middle of the night compromise from the House Speaker, which some GOP lawmakers said wasn’t strong enough. In the end, the House approved a temporary, two-week renewal of FISA.

Top News Stories Apr 17, 2026 – 09:00 AM CDT

Top News Stories Apr 17, 2026 – 08:00 AM CDT

Top News Stories Apr 17, 2026 – 07:00 AM CDT

President Trump has extended a White House invitation to the leaders of Israel and Lebanon. After announcing a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, the president invited the Israeli and Lebanese leaders to Washington for, what he said ,would be their “first meaningful talks” since 1983.Israel and Lebanon have technically been at war since Israel was established in 1948.

Arizona lawmakers reject assisted-suicide

VERBATIM:  The legislation would have allowed state residents who suffer from terminal diseases to get a doctor’s help in taking their own life.  Pro-life advocates warned that a RIGHT to die could quickly become a DUTY to die and the Arizona legislature was listening.  Before killing the bill lawmakers raised concerns about oversight and whether vulnerable people might find themselves pressured to take their own lives.  MH REPORTING

Top News Stories Apr 17, 2026 – 06:00 AM CDT

AM SPORTSCAST, FRI 4-17-2026