Kristi Noem Abruptly Ends Presser After Being Pressed on Laser Strike on Party Balloons

"If that is true, why wasn't the action coordinated with the FAA? According to a report published Wednesday by NBC News, the temporary shutdown of El Paso's airspace came after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials used an anti-drone laser that was provided by the military to shoot down objects that were later identified as party balloons without coordinating with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration."

"KRISTI NOEM: You know, this was a joint agency task force, um, mission that was undertaken. And um, we're continuing to work on the pic.twitter.com/IvVWrscOwd Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) February 13, 2026 You know, this was a joint agency task force, um, mission that was undertaken, said Noem during her Friday presser. And, um, we're continuing to work on the communication through that, but recognize we're grateful for the partnership of the Department of War and the FAA as we go forward."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection used an anti-drone laser provided by the military to shoot down objects that were later identified as party balloons. El Paso airspace was temporarily closed under a temporary flight restriction not used since Sept. 11, which would have barred flights below 18,000 feet, including medical helicopters. The airspace was reopened hours later, creating confusion and finger-pointing inside the administration over responsibility and coordination. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem abruptly ended a news conference when questioned, described the action as a joint agency task force mission, and said communication efforts remain ongoing while acknowledging Department of War and FAA partnership.

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