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When a news event occurs that is so important that it requires television and radio stations to interrupt regularly scheduled programming to cover it, the networks usually alert their affiliates through an open-and-close graphics sequence. The news may then be broken down into smaller segments, and lower thirds or other graphics are used to convey a sense of urgency. Breaking news coverage usually continues for some duration, and may require the network to suspend advertising. Prior to the era of 24-hour news channels, breaking news coverage was reserved for events that elicited nationwide attention, such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
March 19, 2026 * Iran uses drones that are cheap to produce and can strike long distances, to match missiles that cost millions. NPR’s Jim Newell explains why this affordable strategy is changing the nature of war.
