The latest episode of the NPR Up First podcast highlights three significant news stories. First, it reveals the FBI's revised finding that the New Year's Day attack in New Orleans was the work of a lone individual, Shamsuddin Jabbar, dismissing earlier theories of a wider conspiracy. Next, the podcast examines the upcoming election of House Speaker Mike Johnson, noting the narrow Republican majority and the possibility of internal conflicts that could hinder his selection. Lastly, it covers the Israeli military's intensified operations in the Golan Heights, which include home raids and establishing checkpoints, raising concerns for Syrian residents about the risk of land annexation. The podcast underscores the lingering uncertainty and increased security measures in New Orleans following the attack, as well as the political strife within the Republican party.
