Drones prompt Texas airspace closure after US military laser tests

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) unexpectedly closed airspace over El Paso, Texas, for 10 days citing “special security reasons,” only to lift the restrictions the next morning, causing confusion among pilots, local officials, and lawmakers. Initial explanations from Trump administration officials, including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, attributed the closure to drone incursions by Mexican drug cartels, claiming the FAA and Department of Defense had “neutralized” the threat. However, other sources indicated the closure was related to military testing of drones and high-energy laser technology designed to counter unmanned aircraft, activities that raised FAA concerns about interference with civilian flights near El Paso International Airport. The incident drew bipartisan scrutiny, with Texas Senator Ted Cruz requesting a classified briefing due to unclear details, and Democrats criticizing expanded Defense Department authorities for reckless actions in public airspace. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum announced an investigation, denying any known drone activity at the border, while local officials expressed frustration over the lack of clear information. The episode