CNN 5 Things

Coverage opens with tensions over tanker escorts in the Strait of Hormuz and criticism of allied responses. Reporting then turns to expanding conflict in southern Lebanon and civilian displacement. A federal court decision halting major vaccine policy changes is highlighted. Listeners also hear about a top aide’s health update, a planned arts center closure, and Cuba’s nationwide blackout.

Countries are responding to President Donald Trump’s demand for help protecting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump administration officials are also criticizing the news media’s coverage of the war with Iran. The Democratic primary race for Illinois Senator Dick Durbin’s seat is heating up. New research suggests AI is giving some teens bad diet advice. Plus, we’re tracking a powerful storm hitting the east. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coverage of U.S. calls for allied navies to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the geopolitical stakes involved. Airlines press Congress as TSA staff shortages threaten airport security and travel. The Kennedy Center faces a leadership showdown amid controversy. Highlights from the Oscars, including a big winner and Best Actor. March Madness field set and the odds of a perfect bracket discussed.

Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, explains shifts in federal hiring and risks from politicized staffing. Melissa Patsalides, a former USAID career employee, recounts being removed and her life after government. They discuss mass cuts under Doge, impacts on readiness and morale, the push to rehire differently, and concerns about expanding at-will political appointments.

A Paralympian adds more gold to an already remarkable career. Conservationists follow a young tiger using a recovery corridor in Thailand. College students train guide puppies across campuses. A singer-turned-car-salesman reinvents his public persona and goes viral. Music awards and industry reflections round out the mix.

Coverage of rising casualties and nationwide protests tied to the Iran conflict. A federal judge blocks subpoenas tied to a high-profile financial investigation. Authorities probe a vehicle attack at a Michigan synagogue and a university shooting now treated as terrorism. New medical guidance may expand who should take cholesterol-lowering drugs.

A military refueling crash in Iraq that killed six US service members is reported. A car-ramming at a Michigan synagogue prompts state condemnation of antisemitism. New data shows US economic growth slowed late last year. Lawmakers advance a bipartisan plan aimed at easing housing affordability. Iran’s men’s soccer team and political reactions stir debate over World Cup participation.

A purported first message from Iran’s new supreme leader and the regional tensions it could spark. A vehicle attack at a Michigan synagogue and the ongoing investigation into motive. Students who stopped a shooter at Old Dominion University. NASA naming an April 1 launch date for Artemis II. College students building an AI tool that lets plants 'talk'.

A vehicle attack at a Detroit-area synagogue and a deadly campus shooting in Virginia are examined. Rising regional tensions and displacement from Israel-Hezbollah fighting are discussed. Mortgage rates edge up even as lawmakers eye housing relief. An investigation into a police shooting reveals new details. A wild weather swing brings record heat West and colder conditions East.

A tense regional update after Iran names its new supreme leader and issues threats to bases and shipping. Rising oil prices and disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, plus a large emergency release of strategic oil reserves. Warnings about higher transport costs pushing up consumer prices. Widespread destructive storms across the central and eastern U.S. and a surprising World Baseball Classic result that helps Team USA.