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Indonesia & US Sign $38.4bn Trade Deal Under Trump’s “Board of Peace”

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Washington D.C. – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and U.S. President Donald Trump solidified a new era of economic and security cooperation Thursday, signing a reciprocal trade agreement and announcing Indonesia’s commitment to deploy 8,000 troops to Gaza. The agreements were reached during Subianto’s visit to Washington for the inaugural meeting of the Trump-led “Board of Peace,” a newly formed body intended to foster international collaboration.

The trade deal, building on a framework established last summer, aims to eliminate tariffs on most American goods entering Indonesia, while the U.S. Will impose a 19% tariff rate on Indonesian goods – aligning with rates already in place for Cambodia and Malaysia. This reciprocal arrangement, hailed as a “great deal” by the White House, is expected to strengthen economic ties between the two nations and promote global prosperity, according to an official statement. The agreement focuses on bolstering economic security and fostering economic growth for both countries.

Beyond the overarching trade agreement, Indonesian and U.S. Companies finalized 11 separate deals totaling $38.4 billion, according to reports. These agreements span multiple sectors, including significant purchases of U.S. Agricultural products like soybeans, corn, cotton, and wheat. Cooperation in critical minerals and oilfield recovery technologies were also key components, alongside joint ventures focused on the development of computer chips. “We have negotiated very intensively over the last few months, and I think we have reached solid understandings on many issues,” Prabowo stated Wednesday during an address to business executives at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The commitment of 8,000 Indonesian troops to Gaza represents a significant contribution to international efforts in the region. While details regarding the scope and duration of the deployment remain limited, the move signals Indonesia’s willingness to play a more active role in addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis and security concerns in Gaza. This commitment was announced alongside the trade agreement during the Board of Peace meeting.

Details of the US-Indonesia Trade Agreement

The framework trade deal reached last summer laid the groundwork for the agreement finalized Thursday. The core principle involves Indonesia removing tariffs on the majority of American goods, while the U.S. Applies a 19% tariff on Indonesian imports, mirroring the rates currently applied to Cambodia and Malaysia. This structure aims to create a more balanced trade relationship between the two countries. The $38.4 billion in deals signed this week represent a substantial increase in economic cooperation, with a strong emphasis on bolstering U.S. Agricultural exports. These deals include purchases of key commodities like soybeans, corn, cotton, and wheat, providing a significant boost to American farmers.

The agreements also highlight a growing collaboration in strategic sectors. Cooperation in critical minerals is expected to enhance both countries’ supply chain resilience, while joint ventures in oilfield recovery and computer chip manufacturing aim to foster technological innovation and economic diversification. These initiatives reflect a broader effort to strengthen economic security and reduce reliance on single-source suppliers.

The Board of Peace and Indonesia’s Role

The first meeting of the “Board of Peace,” convened by President Trump, brought together leaders from various nations to discuss global challenges and explore collaborative solutions. The formation of the Board of Peace has drawn some scrutiny, with some U.S. Allies expressing reservations about the new body, as reported by ABC7 New York. Though, Indonesia’s participation underscores its commitment to multilateral diplomacy and its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue on pressing global issues. The country’s decision to contribute a substantial number of troops to Gaza further demonstrates its proactive approach to international security.

President Trump also used the Board of Peace meeting to announce pledges for Gaza reconstruction and further troop commitments, as detailed by PBS.

The coming weeks will be crucial in observing the implementation of the trade agreement and the deployment of Indonesian troops to Gaza. Further details regarding the specific terms of the trade deals and the operational parameters of the troop deployment are expected to be released soon. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued collaboration between the U.S. And Indonesia, as well as a commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing the region.

What are your thoughts on this new partnership? Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.

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News

Vatican Declines to Join Trump’s Gaza Peace Board, Citing UN Role

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Vatican City – The Vatican will not participate in President Donald Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace,” a post-war initiative intended to oversee recovery efforts in the Gaza Strip, its top diplomatic official announced Tuesday. The decision signals a reluctance from the Holy See to join the U.S.-led effort, citing concerns over the initiative’s structure and the primacy of the United Nations in managing international crises.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, stated that the Holy See “will not participate in the Board of Peace because of its particular nature, which is evidently not that of other States,” according to reports. The board, initially chartered in January, aims to coordinate reconstruction and governance in Gaza following the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Vatican’s decision comes as other nations likewise weigh their involvement in the U.S.-backed project.

Concerns Over UN’s Role in Crisis Management

Cardinal Parolin articulated the Vatican’s primary concern: the belief that the United Nations should be the leading body in managing international crisis situations. “One concern is that, at the international level it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations. This is one of the points on which we have insisted,” he said. This stance underscores the Vatican’s long-held preference for multilateral solutions through established international organizations. The Vatican received an invitation to join the board from President Trump in January, and has been considering its response since then.

The Board of Peace, which initially included nearly 20 countries, was conceived as a body to supervise the ceasefire in Gaza and coordinate the strip’s reconstruction. However, its scope has since been expanded, with President Trump suggesting it could address a range of global disputes. Some observers view the initiative as an attempt to establish an alternative multilateral forum to the UN, which the U.S. President has repeatedly criticized.

Growing List of Nations Hesitant to Join

The Vatican is not alone in its hesitation. Italy and Poland announced Wednesday they would not be joining the board, adding to a growing list of nations expressing reservations. Israel formally joined the board last week, ahead of a meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump at the White House, Reuters reported. Several other countries, including Russia, Belarus, France, Germany, Vietnam, Finland, Ukraine, Ireland, Greece, and China, were also invited by the White House.

President Trump announced Sunday that members of the Board of Peace have pledged more than $5 billion in aid for Gaza, with a formal pledge meeting scheduled for Wednesday in Washington, D.C. The funding is intended to support reconstruction efforts and address humanitarian needs in the region.

Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. Pope, received the invitation to join the board in January. The Vatican’s decision reflects a careful consideration of the initiative’s implications for international diplomacy and the role of the United Nations.

What to Expect Next

The Vatican’s decision not to participate in President Trump’s Board of Peace underscores the complexities of international cooperation in addressing global crises. As other nations continue to evaluate their involvement, the future of the initiative remains uncertain. The focus will likely shift to the upcoming meeting in Washington, D.C., where pledged aid will be formalized and the board’s operational plans will be further developed. The international community will be watching closely to see how the Board of Peace navigates the challenges of coordinating aid and reconstruction in Gaza, particularly in light of the Vatican’s preference for a UN-led approach.

What are your thoughts on the Vatican’s decision? Share your comments below and let us know what you think about the future of international crisis management.

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Entertainment

Fox Nation’s ‘The White House’ Filmed in Romania, Stars Reveal Historical Prep

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

The newest historical docudrama from Fox Nation, “The White House,” is bringing the early days of American leadership to life, but with a surprising twist: the series wasn’t filmed on a Hollywood soundstage. Instead, production took place in Romania, utilizing a building that remarkably resembled the original White House structure. The eight-part series, which premiered February 6th, aims to offer a fresh perspective on the formative years of the United States, exploring the power dynamics, scandals, and pivotal moments that unfolded within the walls of the presidential residence.

The decision to film overseas wasn’t born of convenience, but of discovery. Actor Gavin Mitchell, who portrays President John Adams in the series, described the set as “breathtaking,” explaining that the team stumbled upon a property in Romania that possessed “the makings of the original White House.” This unexpected identify allowed for a more authentic visual representation of the building as it existed during the presidencies of Adams, Jefferson, and Madison – the focus of the docudrama. The series, announced by Lauren Petterson, president of Fox Nation, intends to immerse viewers in the lives of those who shaped the nation during its early years.

Mitchell shared his surprise during an appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” noting the unexpected location of such a historically evocative building. He described the project as “the history of the country told through the building,” offering a unique lens through which to view the challenges and triumphs of America’s earliest leaders. The series promises a behind-the-scenes glance at the struggles and conflicts that defined the nation’s nascent years, offering a glimpse into the personal and political lives of those who occupied the White House.

Beyond the striking location, the cast emphasized the importance of historical accuracy in their performances. Kosha Engler, who plays First Lady Abigail Adams, revealed her extensive research process, relying heavily on primary sources – specifically, the letters exchanged between Abigail and John Adams. “There were lots of letters that Abigail and John wrote to each other, so I read those,” Engler said, adding that the period wardrobe as well played a crucial role in embodying the character. She noted that the costumes, including corsets and wigs, helped her fully inhabit the role and understand the constraints and expectations placed upon women of that era.

Engler’s research also revealed a new appreciation for Abigail Adams’s influence. She described the First Lady as her husband’s “right-hand woman” and a “powerful domestic political force,” highlighting her significant contributions despite operating largely behind the scenes. This portrayal aims to shed light on the often-overlooked role of women in shaping early American history.

For Mitchell, the project was a personal learning experience. Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland, he admitted to having limited prior knowledge of American politics. “I don’t know a huge amount about American politics, so it was a huge learning curve,” he explained. The opportunity to portray President John Adams, became a deep dive into the complexities of the American founding and the challenges faced by its leaders.

Exploring the Early White House Through Drama

“The White House” isn’t simply a recounting of historical events. it’s an exploration of the human stories behind them. The series delves into the scandals, betrayals, romances, and rivalries that played out within the walls of the newly constructed presidential residence. From the complex relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings to the political maneuvering of Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton, the docudrama promises to reveal the often-shocking truths that shaped the nation’s early trajectory. The series aims to re-examine American history through the lens of its most iconic residence, transforming its walls into a stage for ambition and conflict.

New episodes of “The White House” are released every Friday on Fox Nation, with the first four episodes currently available for streaming. The series is produced by Nutopia, with Jim Greayer serving as showrunner and Hereward Pelling directing. The production team’s decision to film in Romania underscores their commitment to creating an immersive and visually authentic experience for viewers.

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, “The White House” offers a timely and compelling look back at its origins. By focusing on the personal lives and political struggles of those who inhabited the early White House, the series provides a unique and intimate perspective on the birth of a nation. The series invites viewers to consider the enduring legacy of America’s founding fathers and the complex forces that shaped the country’s identity.

What will be fascinating to watch is how this series impacts the ongoing conversation about the founding of the United States and the narratives surrounding its early leaders. As new episodes are released, expect further discussion and analysis of the events and personalities depicted in “The White House.”

What are your thoughts on historical docudramas? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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world

El Paso Airspace Shut Down After Laser Fired on Balloon Mistaken for Drone

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

El Paso Airspace Shutdown: A party Balloon and a Laser – A Breakdown

Table of Contents

el Paso, Texas, experienced a dramatic and disruptive airspace closure this week, triggered by the misidentification of a party balloon as a potential aerial threat. The incident, stemming from border security operations, led to the temporary grounding of all flights at the city’s international airport and sparked criticism from local officials. The airspace, briefly restricted to levels not seen since the September 11th attacks, has since been reopened, but the event raises critical questions about protocol and coordination between federal agencies.

What Happened in El Paso?

on Tuesday, border patrol agents, equipped with a high-energy laser system, targeted an object believed to be an unauthorized drone operated by a Mexican cartel. Though, it quickly became clear that the object was not a drone but rather a harmless party balloon. Despite the innocuous nature of the target, the incident prompted a swift and extensive response.

Unexpected Airspace Restrictions

the Federal Aviation Governance (FAA) later imposed a ten-day closure of El Paso’s airspace, impacting commercial, cargo, and general aviation. This drastic measure, implemented without initial consultation with the white House or Defense officials, caused considerable disruption to travel plans and raised concerns among community leaders. The closure extended ten nautical miles from the airport and reached altitudes of up to 5,000 meters.

Laser Deployment and Security Concerns

The deployment of the laser technology was part of increased efforts by the Pentagon to enhance border security and develop capabilities to counter drone activity.According to sources, the system had been recently deployed and agents had received training from the Army in its operation. The FAA was reportedly informed about the laser’s deployment for a 10-day testing period, yet was not consulted before its use. An increase in drone activity along the U.S.-Mexico border has fueled these security measures, with the Trump administration previously voicing concerns about cartels utilizing drones for illicit activities.

A Timeline of Events

Date Event
February 11 Border agents fire a laser at a suspected drone (later identified as a balloon).
February 11 The FAA announces a 10-day airspace closure over El Paso.
February 12 The FAA lifts the airspace closure, citing no ongoing threat.

Backlash and Calls for Accountability

The sudden airspace closure drew sharp criticism from El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, who emphasized the lack of interaction and coordination with local authorities. Legislator Verónica Escobar echoed these sentiments, labeling the situation a “result of incompetence” at the federal level. The economic impact of the closure was also a concern, with Representative Gabe Vasquez highlighting the potential repercussions for businesses and travelers in both Texas and New Mexico. airlines such as United and southwest quickly responded, offering flexible change policies to affected passengers.

The Broader Context of drone Security

This incident underscores the growing challenges posed by unauthorized drone activity and the complexities of border security. The U.S. military has been actively testing high-energy laser weapons designed to neutralize airborne threats for years. In 2023,the Department of Defense reported a meaningful increase in unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs),some of which are suspected to be drones. The incident in El Paso highlights the need for clear protocols, improved communication, and careful target identification to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

What steps can be taken to improve communication and coordination between federal agencies regarding airspace security? Do you think the increased use of laser technology is a proportionate response to the threat of illicit drone activity?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.

What caused the El Paso airspace shutdown on February 12, 2026?

el Paso airspace Shut down After Laser Fired on Balloon Mistaken for Drone

On February 12th, 2026, the El Paso, Texas airspace experienced a significant, albeit temporary, shutdown following reports of a laser strike on what was initially believed to be a drone. The incident triggered a swift response from air traffic control adn local law enforcement, highlighting the growing concerns surrounding airspace security and the potential dangers of unauthorized laser illumination.

The Initial Incident & Response

At approximately 7:15 PM MST, air traffic controllers at El Paso International Airport (ELP) received multiple reports from pilots of a bright green laser beam directed towards the sky. Simultaneously, radar detected an unidentified object exhibiting unusual flight patterns. The combination of these factors led to the immediate assumption that a drone was operating illegally and perhaps posing a hazard to commercial air traffic.

* Airspace Restrictions: As a precautionary measure, a 30-mile radius around the suspected drone’s location was temporarily restricted. All civilian air traffic was grounded or rerouted, impacting several incoming and outgoing flights.

* Law Enforcement Involvement: The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) were immediately notified and launched a joint inquiry. Units were dispatched to pinpoint the source of the laser and identify the object in the airspace.

* Initial Search Efforts: Early search efforts focused on identifying potential drone operators in the vicinity. However, these proved unsuccessful.

The Balloon revelation & Investigation

After approximately 90 minutes, the “drone” was positively identified as a large, weather balloon released earlier that day by a local university’s atmospheric science department. the laser strike, it was steadfast, was directed at the balloon, not emanating from it.

* Source of the Laser: The EPPD quickly located the source of the laser – a teenager using a high-powered laser pointer from a residential area. The teenager claimed they were unaware of the airspace restrictions and were simply “playing” with the laser.

* FAA Regulations & laser Safety: Shining a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime,carrying potential penalties of up to $250,000 in fines and five years in prison. The FAA has seen a significant increase in laser incidents reported annually, posing a serious threat to pilot safety.

* Impact on Flights: The airspace was fully reopened at 9:00 PM MST, but the incident caused significant delays and disruptions for travelers. Over 20 flights were delayed, and three were diverted to choice airports.

Why Balloons Are Frequently enough Mistaken for Drones

The El Paso incident isn’t isolated. Several similar events have occurred in recent years where balloons – particularly large,reflective weather balloons – have been mistaken for unauthorized drones. Several factors contribute to this:

  1. Radar Signatures: Large balloons can sometimes register on radar systems, albeit with a different signature than a typical drone.
  2. Visual Appearance: From the ground, especially at night, a balloon can resemble a drone, particularly if illuminated.
  3. Unpredictable Movement: Weather balloons drift with the wind, leading to erratic flight paths that can mimic the behavior of a poorly piloted drone.

The growing Threat of Laser strikes

The incident underscores the increasing danger posed by laser strikes to aircraft. Even brief exposure to a powerful laser beam can cause:

* Temporary Vision Impairment: Pilots can experience temporary flash blindness, glare, and afterimages, making it difficult to control the aircraft.

* Distraction & Disorientation: The sudden and unexpected illumination can distract pilots during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.

* Permanent Eye Damage: In rare cases, prolonged or intense laser exposure can cause permanent retinal damage.

Preventing Future Incidents: A Multi-faceted Approach

Addressing the issue requires a collaborative effort from law enforcement, the FAA, and the public.

* Increased Public Awareness: Educational campaigns are crucial to inform the public about the dangers and legal consequences of pointing lasers at aircraft.

* Enhanced Law Enforcement Training: Equipping law enforcement with the tools and training to quickly identify and respond to laser incidents is essential.

* Technological Solutions: The FAA is exploring technologies to help pilots detect and mitigate laser strikes,such as laser warning systems and specialized eyewear.

* Balloon Release Regulations: Stricter regulations regarding the release of large balloons, including mandatory notification to air traffic control, could help prevent future misidentification incidents.

Real-World Examples & Similar Cases

This isn’t the first time a balloon has caused airspace disruption. In 2023, a similar incident occurred near Denver international Airport, where a weather balloon triggered a temporary ground stop. Moreover, in 2015, a large party balloon drifting into restricted airspace over Washington D.C. caused a security scare and led to the temporary evacuation of the White House. These cases highlight the need for vigilance and improved communication regarding aerial objects.

Benefits of Improved airspace Security Protocols

Investing in robust airspace security protocols yields several benefits:

* Enhanced Pilot & Passenger Safety: Minimizing the risk of laser strikes and misidentified objects directly contributes to safer air travel.

* Reduced Flight Delays & Disruptions: Proactive measures can prevent needless airspace closures and minimize disruptions to air traffic.

* Increased public Confidence: Demonstrating a commitment to airspace security builds public trust in the aviation system.

* Protection of critical Infrastructure: Safeguarding airspace protects vital infrastructure, such as airports and air traffic control facilities.

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