A warning about ‘additional information about existing entry requirements’ has been issued

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has released new travel guidance for the USA. The update was released earlier today (Friday, March 13).

The FCDO explained that the amendment pertains to ‘additional information about existing entry requirements and new information on possible travel disruption’. It was posted on the official ‘Foreign travel advice’ page.

The most recent advice also encompasses American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and United States Virgin Islands. The website states: “There could be longer than usual queues at some US airports due to a partial US government shutdown. Check with your travel provider, departure airport or airline for the latest guidance.

“You must have the correct approval prior to travel. This will be either a valid US visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), depending on your personal circumstances and purpose of travel.

“US authorities enforce entry rules strictly. If you do not have the correct immigration status, or if you breach the terms of your entry, there is a risk you may be detained, refused entry, or removed (deported). Overstaying your permitted time in the US can also lead to detention and future bans on re-entry.

“A valid ESTA or visa does not guarantee you will be allowed to enter the US. Authorities may refuse you entry if, for example, they believe you do not plan to stay longer than permitted or have provided inaccurate or incomplete information. The US may change the conditions to travel to the US at any time without prior notice.”

READ MORE: Iran war – Simon Calder explains rules to Brits with holidays booked to Turkey or CyprusREAD MORE: ‘I left London for Germany – rent’s cheaper, but I still miss one thing from home’

The US is set to co-host the World Cup later this year, with the tournament running from 11 June to 19 July. If you’re planning a trip to the US during this period, check out the World Cup page for additional details. Further advisories include ensuring your passport is valid for the duration of your intended stay.

If your journey involves transiting through another country en route to or from the US, make sure to verify the entry requirements for that nation. Many countries only permit entry if your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining.

To gain entry or transit through the US, you’ll need either an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) or a visa. More information on visas can be found on the US State Department’s website.

Travellers whose gender on their passport differs from their birth-recorded sex should seek further advice from the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK.

Officials may request to examine your electronic devices, emails, text messages, and social media activity. Refusal could result in delayed or denied entry.

More information on electronic device searches can be found on the US Customs and Border Protection website.

WASHINGTON — Six American airmen deployed to operations against Iran were killed after their refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq, U.S. Central Command said Friday, bringing the U.S. death toll in the war to 13, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the heaviest day of strikes yet.

The crash involved two aircraft in “friendly airspace,” the Pentagon said, adding that the other plane landed safely. The downed KC-135 refueling tanker is the fourth U.S. aircraft to crash during the war against Iran.

“American heroes, all of them,” Hegseth said at the Pentagon on Friday. “We will greet those heroes at Dover and their sacrifice will only recommit us to the resolve of this mission.”

Central Command said the incident is under investigation but was “not due to hostile or friendly fire.”

During the briefing, Hegseth described the Iranian leaders as “desperate” and “cowering” underground like rats. He said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei “is wounded and likely disfigured,” but gave no intelligence to support the claim.

Khamenei has not been seen in public since he rose to leadership, but issued his first public statement Thursday vowing retaliation against U.S. and Israeli attacks, promising that Tehran will continue to choke off the world’s most crucial oil route — the Strait of Hormuz.

“Our revenge will be never ending, not only for the late supreme leader, but also for the blood of all of our martyrs,” he said.

The defense secretary said Friday would see Iran hammered with the heaviest round of air strikes yet seen in the two-week U.S.-Israeli operation that has razed buildings, complexes and factory lines all across Iran, killing at least 1,348 civilians, according to Iranian officials.

“No quarter, no mercy for our enemies,” Hegseth said.

And while Hegseth insisted that fighting will cease when the U.S. defeats Iran’s naval, missile, and nuclear weapons capabilities, President Trump’s public statements continue to sow doubt that the White House and Pentagon are aligned on the objectives of the mission.

Asked Friday by Fox News when the war might end, Trump said, “When I feel it — feel it in my bones.”

Iran’s blockade of the strait remains Tehran’s foremost leverage against its Western adversaries, and a serious political bane for Trump. The International Energy Agency warned Thursday that conflict has created “the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market,” which has sent oil prices surging 40% to $95 a barrel since Feb. 28.

Some 1,000 ships remain stranded in the Persian Gulf, many of them energy tankers that have been unable to carry oil and gas shipments from the Middle East to importers across the globe. Vessels that have attempted to traverse the embattled channel have been destroyed in Iranian attacks. Hegseth described Tehran’s strategy as “an act of desperation.”

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations on Friday reported 20 incidents affecting vessels operating in and around the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman in March.

Drone and missile attacks continue to assail gulf states, threatening to draw more players into the conflict. Thick black smoke was seen rising over Dubai’s skyline Friday after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone strike caused a fire and minor damage to a building within the Dubai International Financial Centre, according to the Dubai Media Office.

Europe has become increasingly involved, too. U.S. long-range bombers have begun flying offensive missions from British airbases, even as U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer explicitly permitted U.S. forces to use the bases “for defensive purposes only.” Starmer initially refused to cooperate in American hostilities in any capacity, but changed his approach after he drew criticism from Trump, who said, “He’s no Winston Churchill.”

The U.K., France, and Italy each deployed naval assets to the Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus, situated just 125 miles from Lebanon, after Iranian drone strikes hit U.K. bases. The island has emerged as a strategic — and exposed — nerve center in the U.S. offensive against Iran.

Meanwhile, Israel said Friday its strikes are “continuing and intensifying” in Lebanon and Iran. The Israel Defense Forces issued new evacuation orders in southern Lebanon on Thursday after overnight airstrikes in Beirut triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks by the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

Eight civilians were killed and nine others were wounded in attacks on the Lebanese city of Sidon on Friday, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. More than 100 children have been killed in the Israeli assault, the ministry said.

Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar warms up before a game against the Rams on Oct. 12.

(Nick Wass / Associated Press)

The Chargers didn’t hesitate to bolster their run-blocking options for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, agreeing to terms with former Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar.

Kolar and the Chargers agreed to a three-year, $24.3-million deal that includes $17 million in guarantees, NFL Media reported.

Widely considered the best run-blocking tight end available ahead of free agency, Kolar should help an uneven Chargers running attack that forced coach Jim Harbaugh to often rely too much on quarterback Justin Herbert — even when his running backs were healthy.

Kolar can also help complement tight end Oronde Gadsden II in the passing game when necessary, but he should mostly serve as a replacement for Will Dissly, who was released by the team last week. It’s also no coincidence that Kolar played for Harbaugh’s brother, John, in Baltimore and was drafted in 2022 when Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz was the director of player personnel for the Ravens.

Kolar, 27, had 10 catches for 142 yards and two touchdowns last season. In four seasons with the Ravens, he had 30 catches for 409 yards and four touchdowns.

Like most Chargers offseasons, it’s clear Hortiz is prioritizing ways to add to the Chargers’ offense while also bolstering its protection options. On Sunday, the team agreed to terms with Alec Ingold, reuniting the former Miami Dolphins fullback with McDaniel.

It took just two days for Lebanon to be dragged into the US-Israeli war against Iran.

After a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect in Lebanon in November 2024, cross-border violence did not really end.

Now, nearly one million people have been forced from their homes.

The UN chief said Lebanon is part of a war it did not choose, but Israel is ramping up its offensive.

The Israeli defence minister says that if the Lebanese government will not rein in Hezbollah, Israel will.

So, what happens if it does? And what does that mean for civilians?

Presenter: James Bays

Guests:

Nadim Houry – Executive director of the Arab Reform Initiative

Maureen Philippon – Norwegian Refugee Council’s country director for Lebanon

Nicholas Noe – Editor-in-chief of the Beirut-based news service, Mideastwire.com

A Lebanese father mourned the death of his four daughters, mother, father, brother-in-law and nephew, after they were killed in an Israeli attack. Israel has killed at least 770 people in Lebanon since last Monday. Around 750,000 have been forcibly displaced.

Read more

Stranger Things’ The Duffer Brothers have teamed up with Baby Reindeer’s director for an “atmospheric” new horror drama.

Netflix has dropped the hotly-anticipated trailer for Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen just days before it premieres.

The eight-part limited horror series, starring The Night Manager actress Camila Morrone and The White Lotus actor Adam DiMarco, is scheduled to be released in full on Thursday, March 26, on Netflix.

The streamer teases that it will revolve around an “atmospheric wedding…following a bride and groom in the week leading up to their ill-fated nuptials”, cheekily teasing that it’s “not a spoiler”, given the show’s title.

The trailer sees loved-up Rachel (played by Camile Morrone) and Nicky (Adam DiMarco) head up to his family’s log cabin where they plan to get married but she soon feels as if something “weird” is happening.

While fans have shared their excitement at the upcoming horror, some couldn’t help but point out it resembles the plot of horror franchise Ready or Not.

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.

Released in 2019, the original horror film saw Grace (Samara Weaving) fight for her life on her wedding night as she is forced to play a deadly game of hide-and-seek with her wealthy in-laws.

The sequel to Ready or Not is scheduled to be released next month and will see Grace joined by her sister as they try and survive rival families hunting them down.

Taking to YouTube ’s comments section, a viewer posted: “Feels like ‘Ready Or Not’ without a sense of humour.”

“What in the Ready or Not,” another said followed by a crying face emoji as a fan replied: “Right??! Like haven’t we already seen this.”

Someone else asked: “Is this like Ready or Not or something?”

But not everyone agreed that it was the same story as a user pointed out: “Ready Or Not isn’t the first film to have a spooky marriage plot, begging you people to watch movies.”

What makes Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen stand out even more is the fact that it’s executive produced by Stranger Things legends The Duffer Brothers and directed by Baby Reindeer’s Weronika Tofilska.

“The Duffers Cooked,” a fan praised as another posted: “I just realized this is a show by the Duffer brothers..I will be checking it out.”

Someone else then joked: “Imagine Vecna making an entry.”

The official synopsis reads: “Rachel (Camila Morrone) is getting married in five days.

“Together with her fiancé, Nicky (Adam DiMarco), she embarks on a road trip to his family’s vacation home, secluded in a snowy forest, for the intimate wedding ceremony of their dreams.

“Which really would be so lovely, except… prone to superstition and paranoia, Rachel can’t shake the relentless feeling that something bad is going to happen.

“Her foreboding doubts, coupled with a series of eerie coincidences and dreadful surprises, force her to ask the question: What makes two people soulmates? And worse — what could be scarier than lifelong commitment to the wrong person?”

Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen premieres on Thursday, March 26, on Netflix.

A series of proposed changes to the city’s charter — essentially its constitution — could give elected leaders in Los Angeles more oversight of the police department and enable the chief to fire problematic officers, reforms long sought by advocates that are likely to once again face fierce opposition.

Among the recommendations approved last week by the city’s Charter Reform Commission was a proposal that would require any LAPD accountability-related motion or ordinance passed by the City Council to automatically become law if not acted on by the Police Commission within 60 days.

Once the language is finalized, the proposals must clear the City Council and its committees before they can be put to voters on November’s ballot.

Another proposal would give city leaders the ability to override the policy decisions by the Police Commission, a board appointed by the mayor that sets the LAPD policies, oversees its budget and serves as a civilian watchdog.

With the police chief taking criticism for a recent rise in shootings by officers, several proposals sought to strengthen accountability for the use deadly force. One recommendation could require the LAPD to purchase “no less than” $1 million of liability insurance for its roughly 8,700 officers. The insurance would be used to cover legal fees if an officer is found liable for a wrongful injury or death, instead of tapping into the city’s General Fund budget.

Another potential change would “clarify and strengthen” the police chief’s ability to “to initiate and pursue the removal of officers with documented, repeated histories of harm or misconduct.”

Under city rules, the chief of police does not have the authority to fire an officer. Instead, they must send officers whose misconduct they deem severe to disciplinary panels, which occasionally lead to lighter penalties. The new proposal would give the City Council the power to override decisions not to fire, still leaving officers the right to appeal through the courts.

Mayor Karen Bass vetoed a similar bid to rework the disciplinary process in 2024.

The latest proposals drew cautious optimism from activists, many of whom claim the Police Commission is too cozy with the LAPD and have pushed for stronger independent oversight.

Godfrey Plata, deputy director of the nonprofit L.A. Forward, called the proposals a “huge victory” in the fight for police accountability.

“Months ago, police reform wasn’t even on the Charter Commission’s to-do list. Today, because community members came together to force conversations that likely never would have happened on their own, we have multiple reforms headed to City Council,” Plata said.

The Police Commission and LAPD issued nearly identical statements that said they are looking forward to working with the City Council on the charter reform process.

An LAPD spokesman declined to say how Chief Jim McDonnell felt about the proposal, saying it wasn’t “in his interests to give his opinion on something like this as long as it’s still with the full council.”

Samantha Stevens, a Los Angeles political consultant and former legislative staffer, said she is worried the proposed changes are a shortsighted solution to address police abuses that will create another layer of bureaucracy.

“If we don’t like how they’re running things, we should replace the commissioners.” she said. “I don’t know that this will be as effective when you’ve got 15 councilmembers now telling LAPD what to do in their own districts. Is that now too many cooks in the kitchen?”

The charter commission, which has been meeting since last July, must send all its recommended changes to the City Council by April 2.

With the CIF state basketball championships set for Friday and Saturday at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, how about a look back at some of the greatest individual performances in state history.

There was nothing quite like Tracy Murray scoring 64 points for Glendora in the 1989 Division II final at the Oakland Coliseum. Damien coach Mike LeDuc was then Glendora’s coach. Glendora lost to Menlo 89-83. Here’s a look back.

Last season, Brayden Burries scored 44 points to deliver an Open Division championship to Eastvale Roosevelt at Golden 1 Center. Here’s the report.

In 2008, Klay Thompson of Santa Margarita scored 37 points and made a record seven three-pointers at the notoriously tough Arco Arena in Sacramento to help the Eagles win the Division III title over Sacramento 72-55. Here’s the report.

Let’s not forget Josh Shipp delivering five threes to help Fairfax win the Division I title in 2004 over De La Salle 51-35, again at the tough-to-shoot Arco Arena. Here’s the report.

And how about the 2006 final when Palo Alto stunned Mater Dei 51-47 in Division II in which Jeremy Lin made a 25-foot bank shot from the top of the key. Here’s the report.

For girls, Cheryl Miller still holds the most points scored at 41 when Riverside Poly won Division I in 1982 at the Oakland Coliseum over Los Gatos 77-44. Both teams entered 33-0.

Lisa Leslie of Morningside scored 35 points in the 1990 Division 1 final in a 67-56 win over Berkeley at the Oakland Coliseum. Here’s the report.

In 2018, Charisma Osborne of Windward made six threes and finished with 26 points to help her team win the Open Division title over Pinewood 58-47. Here’s the report.

This is a daily look at the positive happenings in high school sports. To submit any news, please email eric.sondheimer@latimes.com.

March 13 (UPI) — Uruguayan drug trafficker Sebastián Enrique Marset Cabrera, known as the “King of the South” and considered a priority fugitive for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, was captured Friday in Bolivia and was being transferred to the United States, authorities said.

The arrest occurred during a raid early in the morning in Las Palmas, an upscale residential neighborhood in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, where Bolivian security forces began the operation about 2 a.m., according to regional media reports.

Bolivia’s Ministry of Government said Marset was to be transported from Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz under a heavy police guard.

The minister of Paraguay’s National Anti-Drug Secretariat, Jalil Rachid, said his office received information from Bolivian authorities confirming the arrest.

“The operation began early in the morning. Around 2 a.m. The information I received is positive. He has already been secured,” Rachid said.

“He was one of the most wanted people worldwide, Rachid said. Many will be seeking his head. I am sure the American government is also interested in that because he used its financial system.”

Images circulated by regional media show Marset under the custody of U.S. agents.

Paraguay’s interior minister, Enrique Riera, said the capture could provide new information about the drug trafficker’s criminal structure in the region.

“More than one person will be worried right now if he tells everything he knows about past events and his connections in Paraguay” Riera said.

Paraguayan Sen. Eduardo Nakayama wrote on X that Marset’s capture was linked to renewed international cooperation.

“Marset’s capture is a key blow to organized crime and was not a coincidence. It coincides with the restoration of cooperation with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration under the government of Rodrigo Paz in Bolivia after 18 years of rupture (2008-2025), during which the country made no progress in the fight against drug trafficking, demonstrating the importance of shared intelligence,” Nakayama wrote.

Images shared by local media also show police escorting other handcuffed individuals while securing the perimeter of the raided residence.

“The information provided to us is that there are five Venezuelan citizens, four men and one woman, who would be part of the operational arm of the Uruguayan Sebastián Marset,” Bolivian journalist Jaime Herrera told ABC TV Paraguay.

Marset, 34, a Uruguayan national, has been identified by authorities in several countries as the leader of an international network involved in cocaine trafficking and money laundering that operated between Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay and Europe.

Investigations indicate his organization coordinated cocaine shipments departed from Bolivia, crossed Paraguay and were later sent to European ports.

Authorities link his network to seizures involving more than 16 tons of cocaine as part of the Paraguayan investigation known as Operation A Ultranza PY, considered the largest operation against organized crime in Paraguay’s history.

Marset’s first known links to drug trafficking date to 2013, when he was arrested in Uruguay after receiving a marijuana shipment connected to Paraguayan traffickers. He was convicted of drug trafficking and regained his freedom in 2018 after serving five years in prison.

After leaving prison, according to investigations, he expanded his criminal network across several countries in the region.

Paraguayan authorities have also linked him to contacts within the Insfrán clan, an organization associated with drug trafficking in Paraguay.

Marset gained international attention after the murder of Paraguayan prosecutor Marcelo Pecci, who was killed in May 2022 on a beach in Barú, Colombia, while he was on his honeymoon.

According to statements cited by Colombian authorities and judicial investigations, Marset was identified as the “determining figure” in the crime, meaning the person who allegedly ordered the assassination.

The international search for Marset intensified in May when the U.S. Sate Department offered a reward of up to $2 million for information leading to his capture.

The U.S. Department of Justice also filed money laundering charges, accusing him of using the U.S. financial system in his operations.

The War Zone has obtained a tranche of documents shedding new light on what police and other government officials actually saw during the New Jersey drone scare that began in late 2024. We were the first to write about an incident that occurred on Nov. 19, 2024, involving drones over the U.S. Army’s Picatinny Arsenal facility in northern New Jersey. We have been documenting highly concerning drone incursions over military installations and critical capabilities for years. But this time what came after was very different.

In a very short period of time, there was an avalanche of drone reports from all over the region and a crush of media coverage from around the globe. As we frequently noted, the vast majority of these so-called drones were reported by civilians and turned out to be misidentified manned aircraft and even stars and planets. In fact, we saw no visual evidence of any mass drone incursions or strange objects over New Jersey during this prolonged series of events. Shortly after President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, his administration announced that the Jersey drones were approved by the FAA “for research and various other reasons.”

That isn’t to say that nothing occurred, but drone mania was clearly sweeping amongst the populous, with every aircraft in the sky suddenly becoming a spooky drone. The mainstream media did not help at all here, either. Videos from local and national news reports showing 737s and helicopters, but being passed off as mysterious craft, became the norm, not the exception. There were also government drones deployed during this period that were surely seen by some as possibly hostile. The lack of understanding about drones and their varied capabilities and configurations among local governments and officials also added to the confusion and fear.

However, there were still sightings that can’t be easily explained as planets or low-flying cargo feeder aircraft. The cache of documents we reviewed, which were obtained by the Freedom of Information Act and local Open Public Records Act, contains thousands of pages and are mostly emails, police reports and internal memos that began being created on Nov. 18, 2024, a day before our Picatinny Arsenal story.

The documents show how police departments and government agencies were alarmed as reports of “rogue drones” started to pour in. They also offer first-hand accounts of sightings by law enforcement officers out in the field. These direct observations include reports of drones flying over military installations, swarms interfering with airport operations and helicopter rescue flights and a host of other issues. There are also claims of the drones disabling police communications and jamming air traffic control radars, although these have to be taken as highly speculative, as we don’t have any info on further investigations into potential electronic warfare effects from any unidentified craft.

We have chosen some of the most interesting reports and documents to share, published here for the first time. While they do not represent a ‘smoking gun’ as to what occurred over the Northeastern United States during the winter of 2024, they do offer additional color as to what law enforcement at least thinks they saw and how local governments reacted to these sightings.

Some of them have been lightly edited for clarity.

Nov. 18, 2024

Watchung Police Department (WPD) 6:41 PM

From Sherif Zalton to all WPD members:

Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights

All,

There have been reports county wide of rogue drone flights (multiple drones flying in pattern over sensitive sites). Due to the nature of President-elect Trump frequenting our county, if we receive or observe any reports of this type, please notify me. If I’m not available please reach out for Carolyn Solon.

Thanks,

Captain Sherif Zaiton

Nov. 19, 2024

Peapack and Gladstone Police Department 3:49 PM

From: Police Chief Stephen Ferrante to several other police officials.

Subject: Drone Form

All,

I just sent a form with information regarding drones. As I advised last night… there were multiple reports of large drones in our area. The info on the paperwork I emailed has important information regarding operating drones, information we need to gather if we locate these individuals, etc.

Please carry a couple of copies with you.

Stephen C. Ferrante

Chief of Police

—–

Watchung Police Department 4:02:04 PM

From Chief Scott Anderle to all WPD members

Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights

Members,

The County, NJSP, and the FBI are all working together on this. If we get reports of drone or other UFO activity, notify County Communications in addition to the Command Staff. These drones are reported to be far bigger than typical hobbyist models and require special licensing from the FAA. If you encounter someone operating, landing, or possessing a drone, especially in the dark, you can detain and ask them to provide licensing information using the attached Drone Operator Sheet. There is also a specific 2C charge that is applicable for operating unlicensed drones. Please be alert, especially over the next few evenings. These events are extremely concerning.

In the event you locate a landed drone, consider contacting NJSP to have it cleared by the Bomb Squad as the size of the recent drones encountered make them potentially military grade.

This information is Law Enforcement Sensitive. Direct all inquiries to the Captain.

Reach out if you have any questions.

Chief Scott Anderle

Watchung Police Department

——

Watchung Police Department. 4:29 PM

From: Sherif Zaiton to Scott Anderle

Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights

All,

The latest update we just received suggests these drones were purposely operating around County radio towers. The tower on Johnston Drive is a County radio tower. Please keep this in mind.

Additionally, as the Chief said, we are being told to very much consider that these drones could be carrying an explosive payload and to treat them as such. If one lands or crashes, please keep this in mind.

Any questions please let me know.

Captain Sherif Zaiton

Watchung Police Department

Executive Officer

—–

Raritan Boro Police 5:33 PM Eastern:

D/Sgt Benjamin Griffin observed a fixed wing drone approximately 400ft in the air traveling from South West to North East towards Somverille. At [5:39 PM], I observed a second fixed wing drone traveling in almost the same flight path. I observed a smaller, possibly a quad drone, flying North to South from Raritan towards Hillsborough in the area of River Road. County [Office of Emergency Management] OEM was notified.

Given all the reports, Morris County law enforcement leaders felt compelled to issue a statement.

Nov. 21, 2024

Bedminster Township Police 7:31 AM

From Chief Francesco Bernardo to several township officials.

Subject: Re: Drones

We have federal, state, county, and local agencies all involved investigating these incidents. Tom and I are attending a briefing today for an update. As per the FBI, we are not to issue any press releases. I also don’t want to discuss this in any [Township Council] meetings because it could have national security implications and there would be nothing that I could disclose anyway.

If we ever get any intel that there is a real or active threat to Bedminster we will obviously act accordingly. Rest assured, there are a lot of resources being dedicated to this.

Respectfully,

Chief Francesco Bernardo

Bedminster Twp Police Department

Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. 3:53 PM

From: Sergeant Andrew J. Winter, Counterterrorism Coordinator to county officials

Subject: ALERT Suspicious NJ UAS Activity – PLEASE NOTIFY ALL PATROL UNITS

The FBI and [Joint Terrorism Task Force] JTTF is requesting assistance regarding suspicious unmanned aircraft in New Jersey. Please see the alert and notify all patrol units to document and make notification as outlined below –

Thanks,

 Andrew

Nov. 23, 2024

Branchburg Township Police Department. 11:57 PM

On November 23, 2024, at approximately [11:57 PM] I observed that both my portable radio and the radio in my patrol vehicle were “Out of Range.” At the same time, I was contacted by Ofc. Conforti inquiring about this same issue with his radios. I contacted Somerset County Communications and advised them of what was occurring. They initially advised that they did not notice any radio issues and placed me on a brief hold. 

Then they advised me that all police departments utilizing the Somerset County Communications Center were all experiencing the same issue with all radios in county being “Out of Range.” The radio signal was out for approximately three to five minutes before resuming normally. At this time Sgt. Cronce was on an alarm call with an open door when he lost radio communication while clearing the building. Our police department’s OEM Coordinator, Ofc. Russoniello was notified of this issue as well as the remainder of the Somerset County OEM Coordinators.

After the radio issue was resolved, I spoke with Ofc. Magos who advised me that he was at police headquarters when the radio issues occurred. He noted that when this occurred, observed a drone flying near police headquarters in the sky. He did not obtain an image or video of the drone.

I then notified the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness via email to their Counter-Terrorism Watch of this incident. I also notified Chief Buck, Captain Edgar and Lt. Jepsen of this matter via email.

Nov. 24, 2024

Parsippany Police Department. 6:39 PM

Sgt. Lesiak, Ptl. Sisco and I responded in the areas of the Reservoir Rt 46 W and Greenbank Rd on a report of drone activity flying over the reservoir. Upon arrival at the Rockaway Sewage Plant, I observed more than 13 drones flying through the area in a Northerly direction. Sgt. Lesiak and Ptl. Sisco arrived on scene. Officers were unable to identify the style and size of the drones. Officers observed the drones in the area for approximately 30 minutes. Ptl. Sisco made contact with CT watch and a [suspicious activity report] SAR report was generated. The NJ State Police were requested to monitor the 287 Corridor due to the critical infrastructure areas of the reservoir and water treatment plants. Sgt. Lesiak was later informed that the FBI, US Marshals and [Morris County] MC Sheriff’s Office were currently tracking the suspicious drones.

Nov. 25, 2024

Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.

From: Sergeant Andrew J. Winter, Counterterrorism Coordinator to county officials.

Subject: ALERT Suspicious NJ UAS Activity – PLEASE NOTIFY ALL PATROL UNITS

Hi All,

Please accept this an update to my earlier alert –

There have continued to be unexplained drone sightings around high tension wires, power  stations, and military bases in New Jersey. These alerts are being released almost daily from NJ [Regional Operations Intelligence Center] ROIC per [New Jersey Suspicious Activity Reporting] NJSARS notifications. Please remain alert and ask that patrol divisions make immediate notification should a sighting be confirmed in Middlesex County, NJ. Some of these unknown fix wing drones have been quite large. These aircraft have flown over critical infrastructure in the State of New Jersey and there is a concern this could be “out of country” nations. At the current time, there have NOT been any sightings in Middlesex County, NJ to my knowledge, but that may change.

I have received several calls on this from our local jurisdictions. Please heighten awareness and, if possible, attempt to enhance regular patrols around areas of substations and critical infrastructure. The FBI is requesting immediate notification on sightings. Please call me as well to make appropriate notifications to NJ ROIC and for the NJSAR. I hope all of you have a great Thanksgiving with your families!

Be safe,

Andrew

Branchburg Police Department 7:26 AM

A quad propeller drone that was hovering within the perimeter of the switching station approximately 150 feet above a pole near Route 202. The estimated altitude of the drone at approximately 300 feet. As I approached the gate at the switching station the drone appeared to turn off its flashing red and green lights and leave the immediate area. Cpl. Martin and Det. Sgt. Decandia then arrived on location to assist with the investigation.

After about a minute the drone along with 2 others were visible on the back side of the property and leaving the area to the North. 

—–

Branchburg Police Department 6:34 PM

Officer Juan Polanco

On November 26, 2024, at approximately [6:34 PM] [New Jersey State Police] NJSP NorthStar [emergency medical helicopter] was requested to land at Raritan Valley Community College (118 Lamington Road) to medevac an injured male from a motor vehicle crash. At approximately [6:39 PM] as North Branch Fire Department was arriving at the landing zone, 3 drones were observed just east of the landing zone. North Branch Fire relayed this information to Somerset County Communications to advise NorthStar of the drone activity. 

As NorthStar was approaching the landing zone at approximately [6:43 PM], multiple more drones were spotted in the area. This information was relayed to NorthStar via radio. Due to the numerous drones in the immediate area, NorthStar was unable to land. A new landing zone was established at Somerset Airport in Bedminster. As NorthStar was flying towards the Somerset Airport, 3-4 drones appeared to follow NorthStar. 

—–

Fair Hills Police Department 10:22 PM 

On the above date and time, while on routine patrol, I observed numerous low-flying UASs maneuver along the US Hwy 202 corridor traveling N/B. Between the span of [10:20 PM and 10:40 PM] I observed approximately 10 UASs follow the general direction of US Hwy 202 N/B towards Bernardsville. I estimated the flight altitudes to range from approximately 200 to 400 feet from the ground. The UASs were of atypical size (significantly larger than standard civilian-model drones), triangular in shape, had strobing white/red LEDs, and solid red/green lights affixed to the wing tips. I advised SCC, who notified OEM director Joe Schardien. I also notified Cpl. Kamieniecki via text message.

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 12:30 AM

Officer Mattia

On Wednesday November 27, 2024 at approximately 0030 hours, I was parked at 1100 Terminal Circle Drive, Ewing, NJ on the driveway leading to Station 34 when a vehicle approached me occupied by Detective Dilea (NJSP). Det. Dilea asked me if I had seen any drones flying over the airport. Before I could answer he pointed out a drone flying from the direction of I-295 at approximately two hundred feet in the air over the terminal and baggage claim then out of sight towards Capital Health. At this time Ofc. Salvatore #285 notified Sgt. Caruso and we conducted an exterior patrol to try and follow the drone. When we could not locate the drone and returned to the terminal. At that time we were approached by Detective Garzio (TPD) who stated that they have been trying to track multiple drones in the area and that they aren’t normal consumer drones but military style drones with fixed wings and motors. He also stated that the drones “can jam signals.”

—–

Branchburg Police Department: 10:19 PM

Officer Nick Magos

On the above date and time while conducting routine patrol of Route 202, I was conducting a U-turn at Route 202 and Old York (Centerville), when I observed an unidentified drone hovering over the [Public Service Electric & Gas] PSEG Switching Station, 1389 Route 202. The drone appeared to be a quad propeller drone that was hovering within the perimeter of the switching station approximately 150 feet above a pole near Route 202. The estimated altitude of the drone at approximately 300 feet. As I approached the gate at the switching station the drone appeared to turn off its flashing red and green lights and leave the immediate area. Cpl. Martin and Det. Sgt. Decandia then arrived on location to assist with the investigation. After about a minute the drone along with 2 others were visible on the back side of the property and leaving the area to the North.

Dec. 3, 2024

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 6:50 PM

Sgt. Shane Coderoni

I was informed by Station 34 Captain Corey Platt about drone activity in the Trenton-Mercer Airport airspace. Captain Platt relayed information from Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC), who reported observing “three to four primary targets in the Delta Airspace at 600 feet and five operating in the southeast.” I immediately dispatched officers on duty contact with TATC Brandon Dominguez…Dominguez reported that in addition to the radar tracking, he visually observed several drones operating in the runway departure zones. The radar data, which could track the speed of the drones, confirmed their presence in the airspace. The fastest speed recorded for the drones was 150 knots (172.6 miles per hour).

As a result of this drone activity, flight operations at Trenton-Mercer Airport were affected. All training flight operations were grounded. Other arriving and departing aircraft were advised to proceed with caution. To address the situation, Dominguez contacted Airport Operations Employee Ed Berry, who issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), which stated:

-TTN 12/002 TTN AIRSPACE UAS W I AN AREA DEFINED AS 4.5NM RADIUS OF TTN SFC-2500FT AGL 2412040017-2412041100-

The NOTAM was valid until [6 AM] Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

I inquired with Dominguez regarding the impact of the drone activity on the inbound Frontier Airlines flight, scheduled to arrive at approximately [9:40 PM]. Dominguez confirmed that, at that time, the flight would not be diverted but advised to proceed with caution due to the ongoing drone activity.

I instructed Dominguez to contact Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch should any further drone activity impact flight operations. A still photograph was taken of the Trenton Air Traffic Control Radar Unit. TATC Dominguez stated that the blue dots without a designation, were the “primary targets” (drones). I observed several drones flying in and out of radar during my interview with Dominguez… No further information or drone sightings were reported after this discussion.

At approximately [7:59 PM], I was contacted by NJSP Sgt. Wisniewski, attached to the Regional Operations Intelligence Center. Sgt. Wisniewski stated that he received reports of drone activity affecting flight operations at TTN. I advised him of the ongoing investigation and actions taken.

He advised to contact him if anything further was reported.

At approximately [8:12 PM] , Lt. Corban was contacted and notified of the incident.

A Suspicious Activity Reporting Form was submitted to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness CT Watch Unit on Tuesday, December 3 , 2024, at [10:40 PM]. 

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Chatham Township Police 10:35 PM

Ptl. Brian McGrath

On December 3, 2024, at [10:35 PM], Officer Colette Murphy and I deployed the Chatham Township Police Department Drone from headquarters due to possible unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) activity in the area. During my initial scan, at approximately 190 feet in height, I did not observe any drone activity in the immediate area. 

To the southwest of headquarters, I observed several UAVs that were flying in a coordinated fashion and appeared to be moving back and forth in a grid pattern. Their formation changed several times during my 30-minute flight before dispersing in a nonunified way. 

Due to an unknown reason, I was unable to capture photographs or video using our drone. 

—–

Raritan Township Police 11:08 PM

Patrol observed a low flying (large) drone, hovering over the Raritan Train Station. The drone remained hovering over the train station for a period of time before proceeding towards the Somerville Circle at a higher altitude.

Dec. 4, 2024

Readington Township Police 9:47 AM

From Lieutenant Steven Rindock to other police officers

Now that we’ve had significant involvement with these suspicious drones, I’m thinking that we should utilize our own drones and conduct counter-surveillance. While it’s true that we don’t know when or if they will return to Readington, haven’t heard of any agencies being proactive in their attempts to investigate these drones. 

I’m thinking that we should have a drone detail with our certified pilots that can either be an overtime detail, or modified work schedule. If we have a pilot (or multiple) on this detail, they can monitor the CAD and respond to areas where they’re receiving reports. Ideally these reports would be in Readington but I would encourage the pilots to pursue all leads no matter the jurisdiction. 

And if one of our drones were to get too close and cause one of the suspect drones to fall out of the sky, we would call our Federal partners and turn over all intel to them. We have insurance for our equipment. 

Let me know your thoughts, thanks. 

Lieutenant Steven Rindock 

Readington Township Police Department

Readington Township Police 10:27 AM

From Detective Sergeant Jason Phares to Lieutenant Steven Rindock and other police officers.

I am not opposed. A few considerations on both sides so that we come to a sound decision: 

We are somewhat unique in that we have a [Certificate of Authorization] COA and operate under Part 91, meaning we can legally fly at night, which is generally prohibited otherwise. I assume this is why others have not attempted to investigate using their own drones. 

Our drones broadcast an identifier. We could be identified as trying to intercept these unknown drones by other investigating agencies. Again, we are legally allowed to operate, but it is something to consider. We should try to deconflict before moving forward. There probably are Federal agencies/military using their capabilities to monitor already, which I would not want to interfere with. We are able to observe and photograph/record from a lengthy distance because of zoom and IR capabilities, so that is an option also. Those recordings could be passed along. 

These operate at night and usually stay in the area. It could be handled as a callout to try to get a recording when we get reports that they are in the area. I don’t think response time would have an impact if last night’s events gave any indication. 

Dec. 5, 2024

Clinton Township 7:34 PM

Officer John J. Tiger

A report of drones near 45 Deer Hill and Petticoat and Briar. I observed what appeared to be at least three separate 4 drone formations. One was moving west over Runkle Road, another was over Exxon Research, also moving west, and one appeared to be over the north end of town. These appeared to be 4 units moving in a pattern. I am familiar with the air traffic in the area and these were not consistent with that traffic. I observed one unit hovering directly over top of the portion of Exxon Research that has their refinery equipment. I drove through the Exxon Research property attempting to get a better view of the drone, but it moved away. I reached out to their security through dispatch to attempt to have them use their cameras to get video of the drones. While driving through the property one went almost directly over top of my patrol vehicle. The unit was high enough that I could not get enough light pushed out to it to get a visual other than the red/green/white lights it was running. This one did not seem to be making a lot of noise and I believed this unit was a fixed wing version. 

From Cokesbury at Glencree Lane I could see numerous drones. I called dispatch to advise them. They told me that FBI agents were in Readington actively looking. I directed them to this location due to the elevation and clear field of view. From that location, with an approximate 200 degree field of view and clear skies I could see dozens of similar drones all around. Some of them were flying in patterns, others were hovering, and some were moving in group formations. Most of these drones appeared to be at least a half mile from my location with many more well beyond that. 

—–

Dec. 6, 2024

Freehold Township Police 8:25 PM

Lt. Kenneth S. Kleinmann

On 12/06/2024 between [6 PM and 6:30 PM] while in the area of State Route 33…I observed an unmanned aircraft suspected to be a drone hovering in the area. The drone in question continued in a western direction following  SR 33 business ultimately flying in the area of a [Jersey Central Power & Light] JCPL substation and US Army National Guard Armory. The drone continued in a western direction until I lost sight of same. At the time of the incident Fightradar24 showed no registered aircraft in the immediate area and drone scanner yielded no results for RemoteID.

It should be noted, the drone was emitting a green and white light and appeared to have the structure of a large quad-copter.

Incident was documented with Homeland Security through their UAS Sightings Information.

—–

Jefferson Township Police 9:58 PM

Incident Report

Dispatch received a call regarding potential drone activity in the Saffins Pond Dam area approximately one hour prior. The caller had responded home to research what they had seen and once they suspected it to be a drone, they notified dispatch. Patrol responded to the area. PO Ryan and I responded and parked our patrol vehicles at the gate and proceeded to the area described by the caller on foot. 

While proceeding to the area on foot, I scanned the area utilizing my thermal device. In the area of the dam, consistent with the caller’s information, I observed a figure that appeared to be a person standing straight up. From my perspective to the left of the figure, appearing to be in the vicinity of the bridge was a flashing white light. A shape could not be made out. We alerted dispatch to the findings.

While scanning the area, we observed what appeared to be a person shining a flashlight down the path leading toward Weldon Road. We alerted other units to check the area, but they could not locate the person. The light was moving in a manner not consistent with headlights from the roadway. Coincidentally, while approaching the area, our portable radios and cellular devices were operational. While within close proximity to where the person and device was suspected, our radios stopped working. We attempted to transmit, but no signal was relayed. After we left the suspected area, our radios became operational again.

After we cleared the area, we returned to our cars and the radios were operational in the area that they were previously not. [Morris County Sheriff’s Office] MCSO was notified and responded out and checked the surrounding area with other patrol units but did not locate anything. While we were in the area, we did not observe any drone or aircraft flying in our proximity.

—–

Dec. 6, 2024

West Caldwell Police 6:31 PM

Officer Kevin Antero

Headquarters received multiple calls regarding drone activity in the area. Officers also observed multiple drones flying in the area in our jurisdiction. I contacted the Essex County Airport tower and reported the above incident. Employees from the Essex County Airport tower advised they also observed four drones flying above the airport and were not able to observe them using their radar and were also not receiving a remote identification from the drones. Employees advised they believe the drones are using a sophisticated radar jamming technology for the tower to not be able to see them on radar. 

Clinton Township Police 7:34 PM

Officer John J. Tiger

I made contact with FBI special agent Sierputowski. He responded out to confirm what I was seeing. While on scene with me he confirmed that the lights I suspected to be drones did match the description of the units that the ongoing reports around the state have involved. I can only estimate the number of drones due to the extremely clear visibility and their constant movements but there were at least 20 drones visible at any given time. I believed there to be more than that amount actually in the air, but they were at times obscured by ground features. 

Dec. 7, 2024

Carteret Township Police 8:20 PM

Lt. Robert Wargocki

On Saturday December 7th, 2024, I was on patrol eastbound of Industrial Highway in Car # 01 when I observed an unidentified object, which appeared to be a drone, flying in the air over Kinder Morgan [Carteret Terminal] which is a critical infrastructure in the Borough of Carteret. I was unable to determine the approximate size or any distinguishing markings but observed that it had red and white lights that were dimming and reactivating as it slowly flew in an eastbound direction towards the Arthur Kill waterway and Staten Island New York. 

I proceeded to drive onto Roosevelt Avenue towards the east end of the Kinder Morgan facility past Lafayette Street and exited my patrol unit in order to photograph the drone using the shift Commandez’s cell phone. I then observed a second unidentified object / drone flying from the south in a northeast direction paralleling the Arthur Kill waterway with the same type of lights (red/white) that kept dimming and reactivating which I photographed as well. I radioed dispatch to advise them of my findings and create a CAD entry. 

I then drove towards the Carteret Waterfront and observed an additional three unidentified flying objects / drones slowly flying from the south and in a northeast direction and photographed them as well. 

I returned to my patrol unit and proceeded back towards Kinder Morgan to further investigate any additional drones in that area and observed two flying in the vicinity of the NJ Turnpike (Exit 12) and the Amazon Warehouse. Photographs of those drones were also taken using the Shift Commanders cell phone and all are attached to this report. 

In all, ten drones were observed between my first observation at [7:56 PM], until the last one at [8:17 PM]. over the NJ Turnpike.

Dec. 8, 2024

East Rutherford Township Police 5:30 AM

Lt. McCann of the Federal Reserve Bank contacted headquarters to report that three (3) drones were observed flying over their building this morning at approximately 5:30AM. According to Lt. McCann, one large drone (approximately the size of a motor vehicle) and two smaller drones were observed by officers approximately 100 feet above the parking lot, located at 100 Orchard Street in East Rutherford. Lt. McCann submitted pictures taken by his officers at the time and were attached to the report. Surveillance video of the drones taken by the Federal Reserve is also available upon subpoena. Incident was documented with the Emergency Response Bureau (North Region) as well as the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Intel Unit. 

—-

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 7:30 PM

Sgt. Shane Calderoni

I…was notified by Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch that Captain Nunn of Trenton-Mercer Airport Fire Station 34 had reported multiple drones/UAV operating around the airfield, specifically flying over runway 24.

At approximately [8:32 PM], I contacted Captain Nunn. Captain Nunn stated that he had visually observed approximately a dozen suspected drones passing through and around the airfield, but these drones were not detected on radar. He had notified Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC) and Airport Operations. At the conclusion of our conversation, I exited the Sheriff’s Office at 10 Grumman Ave. and observed several suspected drones hovering over the Sheriff’s Office and Signature Aviation, at an altitude of approximately 500 to 600 feet.

At approximately [8:38 PM, I arrived at Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC) on the airfield. Upon entering, I observed a rotary-style drone/UAV, approximately the size of a truck, operating over the Trenton-Mercer Airport Terminal at an altitude of approximately 400 to 500 feet. The drone crossed into the airfield’s airspace and then took off toward Capitol Health Hopewell….

In TATC, I met with Air Traffic Controller Robert Casey, who confirmed multiple suspected drones were operating around the airfield’s airspace. At that time, no Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued to warn arriving and departing aircraft. Given the situation, Casey advised that a NOTAM was warranted. I then contacted Airport Operations Jeff Ritter to inform him of the drone activity and recommend issuing a NOTAM. Ritter agreed, and the following NOTAM was issued:

AIRSPACE UAS WI AN AREA DEFINED AS 4.5M RADIUS OF TIN SFC-2500FT AGL. 09 DEC 02:04 UNTIL 09 DEC

11:00 2024. CREATED: 09 DEC 02:04 2024

Casey clarified that no flights would be grounded or diverted unless a specific operational safety concern arose. Arriving and departing aircraft were advised to use caution due to the ongoing drone/UAV activity.

At approximately [8:44 PM], Casey requested an NJSP Helicopter Unit conduct a sweep around the perimeter of the airfield, specifically near Signature Aviation. By approximately [8:54 PM] after several sweeps of the area, no drone activity was detected in the airfield’s immediate airspace. The NJSP Helicopter Unit then landed safely on the NJSP Ramp.

Casey stated that no “false positives” were detected on radar, but the multiple visual sightings of drones were consistent with the lack of radar signals. I advised Casey to notify Mercer County Sheriff’s Dispatch if any further safety concerns arose.

At approximately [9:19 PM], Mercer County Dispatch informed that Ewing Police had reported spotting a drone flying over Fisher Middle School (1325 Lower Ferry Rd), heading in the direction of the airport.

TATC noted several suspected drones in the distance, but none were detected crossing into the Airport’s airspace. At approximately [11:51 PM], an arriving commercial Frontier Airlines Flight #FFT2742 from Orlando, FL, carrying approximately 182 passengers, landed safely and did not report any drone activity.

—–

Carteret Township Police 7:40 PM

Officer Sarah Abdelnabi

I was dispatched to the area Spruce St. for a report of multiple drones in the area. Upon arrival, I observed several unidentified objects, appeared to be drones flying around the area of Spruce St. and Arthur Ave, and disappeared heading towards the area of possibly Police HQ. 

As I was making my way towards the area of Police HQ, Lt. Hart reported observing possibly the same 4-5 drones flying in the area of Dule Pyle ( 5000 Industrial Ave.) down the waterway heading towards Kinder Morgan.

Dec. 9, 2024

Howell Township Police 10:22 PM

Ptl Alex Peltzman

Aircraft incident: Manasquan Reservoir 

Responded to the above area for the report of drones flying over the reservoir. Upon arrival to the [New Jersey Water Supply Authority] NJWSA gate access off of Southard Ave, two un-identifiable flying objects with blinking lights could be seen in the air flying South from my location directly over the body of water. 

Howell NJ – Manasquan Reservoir (4K)

Dec. 10, 2024

There were so many drone sightings that the New Jersey State Police called a special statewide meeting to discuss the issue.

The New Jersey Regional Intelligence & Operations Center (NJ ROIC) also put out information about the drone sightings.

Dec. 12, 2024

Howell Township Police 8:55 PM

Ptl. Chandler Reed

Aircraft Incident – 102 East Florence Circle 

Responded to the above for a report of drones. Upon canvassing the area, I observed multiple Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) in the airspace. While canvassing, Michael Steiger (W/M/44/Howell) flagged me down and advised that over Naval Weapons Station Earle (NWSE) he saw a drone turn into a “white sparkle” and believes that it crashed into the property of NWSE West of Colts Neck Road. A search of aviation flight records for ADS-B yielded negative results. NJSP notified via their UAS sighting platform. NWSE notified of the possible uncontrolled flight into terrain (UFIT). 

Howell Township Police 9:14 PM

Ptl. Chandler Reed

Aircraft Incident Snow Chief Court

Caller reporting drones or possible christmas lights in the sky…concerned for her dog to go outside. 

Responded to the above for a report of possible “christmas lights in the sky” or drones. Upon canvassing the area, I observed multiple Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) in the airspace. A search of aviation flight records for ADS-B yielded negative results. NJSP notified via their UAS sighting platform. 

—–

Lakewood Township Police 9:41 PM

Officer E. Micallef

On Thursday, 12/12/2024, at [9:41 PM] I was traveling North on Airport Rd approaching Oak St when I observed a large drone flying lower than any other drone I have seen to-date. NOTE: there have been drone sightings across NJ and the Federal Government provided statements to the public that they are not aware of who is operating the drones, but they do not believe they are dangerous to the public.

I followed the drone as long as I could but it was traveling at a high rate of speed. It was very large, dark colored metal framing, and very long beams from the center area that extended to four or more propellers. This drone was the at the lowest altitude of all the drones observed today (a total of approximately 10 from my assigned zone). It also appeared to be similar or exactly the same as the other drones that were in the area.

—–

Galloway Township Police 9:44 PM

Officer Stephen Vernon

On Thursday, December 12, at approximately [9:44 PM], dispatched advised me that the air traffic control tower at the Atlantic City Airport called advising of a drone in the area of the airport. 

They advised that it was above 5500 feet and falling rapidly. They also reported a blue laser near the airport shinning down from up high. The tower requested we check the area. 

I responded to the area of the White Horse Pike and Pomona Rd and began scanning the sky. I immediately observed a very slow-moving flying object heading northeast towards my location. It had a red and green flashing lights and appeared to be around 1000 feet off the ground. It continued towards my location and passed directly over me. As it did, I observed that it was a very large drone comparable to the size of a small car. It continued traveling northeast very slowly. It should be noted that it did not emit sound like an airplane or helicopter. 

Prior to clearing the area, I observed two more drones east of my location also moving northeast. A fourth drone was observed stationary hovering over the airport. 

I responded to the station after clearing the area and contacted the air traffic control tower. I spoke to FAA employee, Mike…I advised him of what I observed, and he advised me that he was reporting it to the DEN. Mike said the DEN was similar to the ROIC but on a federal level. I advised Mike I would report the incident to the ROIC via a SARS notification along with my report. 

The Atlantic County Prosecutors Office, Homeland Security, personal where also notified. 

Dec. 13, 2024

Plainview Township Police 8:08 PM

Cpl. Daniel Kanaley

On the above date and time, dispatch received a phone call from staff at Princeton Plasma Physics Lab [PPPL] regarding possible drone sightings over their restricted area. I spoke with Lt. Chris Pietsch (Site Protection Division) who reported that at approximately[8:02 PM] they observed approximately 11 drones flying in the area of the PPPL property for approximately 20-25 minutes. Specifically, 5 of the drones flew through their federal restricted air space and came as close as 100-200 hundred yards from them. They were described as fixed wing drones with one red, one green and one white light on each drone (all flashing). Lt. Pietsch provided cell phone video of one of the drones from a distance, which was attached to this case. 

Contact was later made with Sgt. Winters of the MCPO CTC via telephone and this report was later emailed to him with the video. 

Dec. 14, 2024

Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office

Sergeant Andrew J. Winter

Counterterrorism Coordinator

Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office

Intelligence, Counterterrorism, & Bias Unit

Hi All,

Please accept this as an update to the ongoing drones –

I thought the recent patterns over the past two nights were interesting to share with all of you. We had many drone sightings over Middlesex County, NJ in recent days. It appears that those sightings were focused on areas above or around our medical centers. This includes Princeton Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson, and JFK Medical Center – in terms of a pattern. In addition, there were drones sighted over Princeton Plasma Lab in Plainsboro, NJ which is federally restricted airspace. Lastly, through multiple counties to include Middlesex there were several laser (green color) interactions with pilots flying both commercial and cargo flights over New Jersey. These interactions appeared, based on reports, to be higher in elevation, but the green laser is consistent with the green colored light reported on the UAS drones. It is not confirmed if those interactions were in fact drones or independent laser to aircraft interactions.

I just wanted to send out this short update. The reporting has highlighted patterns of activity throughout the county.

Updates will be provided as pertinent and available. Have a great weekend!

Respectfully,

Andrew

By this point, Congressman Tom Kean weighed in. His office sent an email to local officials letting them know he was calling on then-President Joe Biden and other federal and state officials to provide answers about the unidentified lights in the sky.

In closing: there have been no arrests made in the Jersey drone investigation and no drones recovered that we know of. The vast majority of these incidents, as we noted earlier in this story, were misidentifications. However, these first-hand reports from law enforcement officers and government officials are interesting credible witness datapoints and underscore just how little we still know about what actually happened, or didn’t happen, over New Jersey during the Winter of 2024.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com

Whether you’re Irish by blood or Irish just for the day — you want to head to the best spots in the UK to ring in the festivities — and that’s where we come in.

St Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and it’s the one day of the year people really like to let loose and celebrate.

Every year on March 17, people all over the world outside of Ireland — but especially the UK — come out in hordes to celebrate St Paddy’s Day. We’re talking lively parades, a sea of endless green, and booze. Lots and lots of booze.

Whether you’re Irish by blood or Irish just for the day — you want to head to the best spots in the UK to ring in the festivities. And that’s where we come in.

It goes without saying that the capital cities of Belfast in Northern Ireland and Dublin in the Republic of Ireland are must-visits if you’re looking for the ultimate St Paddy’s celebrations, but for those of you who can’t make it all the way to Ireland — don’t worry, we got you.

We’ve compiled a list of the best cities in Britain where you can celebrate St Patrick’s Day this year, so whether you’re planning to head out with a group of mates or go on a solo adventure, make sure to give these spots a whirl.

Let the Guinness and the good times roll.

London

It’s no surprise London is on this list. The UK’s capital city hosts a massive St Paddy’s Parade every year, and this year it’s going to be bigger and better than ever.

March 15 will see the official parade weave its way from Hyde Park to Trafalgar Square, with Irish music, pageantry, dance troupes, floats, and marching bands on display, along with a free-for-all party in Trafalgar Square for the public to enjoy featuring live music, comedy, food and drink.

It’s not just the parade that’s a draw — the weekend closest to March 17 always sees a flurry of activity as London’s thriving Irish community comes out in full force — along with just about every other person looking for a fun time. The Guinness Open Gate Brewery has also recently arrived in the city, hosting a line-up of craic, comedy, and electric music.

Look no further than London for a truly epic time.

Birmingham

The UK’s second largest city is undoubtedly one of the best to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in. In fact, it was one of the first cities in the country to begin hosting St Patrick’s Day celebrations, with a dedicated parade for the day since 1952.

With endless welcoming pubs, restaurants and clubs, there’s no dearth of exciting ways to celebrate the Irish holiday in Birmingham.

While the city’s annual St Patrick’s Day Parade has unfortunately been cancelled once again this year, there’s still more than enough to do in Brummy to get the celebrations going.

Revellers can instead head to St Patrick’s Family Fun Day at the Irish Centre on March 15 which will see a host of activities and entertainment including live bands, music and plenty of food and drink.

Or you can just head down to one of the local pubs — because parade or no parade, St Paddy’s Day is always a rip-roaringly fun time in Birmingham.

Manchester

There’s no way Manchester wasn’t going to be on this list. The city is all set to host its Irish parade for Paddy’s Day on March 15 and revellers can enjoy foot-tapping live Irish music, mouthwatering food, drinks and much more.

Expect to see “plenty of bright costumes, lively parades, and fun events happening across the city”.

In fact, the 10-day Manchester Irish Festival has been running since March 7 and will go on till March 17, with the parade on Sunday being the event’s highlight.

Liverpool

Liverpool is another UK city that’s always a good time on St Patrick’s Day. Irish pubs, karaoke bars and top-class entertainment means if you’re in Liverpool, it’s going to be a hell of a time.

Those hoping for a more peaceful and religious St Paddy’s Day can make their way to Liverpool Cathedral which is Britain’s biggest.

The 10th Annual Liverpool St Patrick’s Day Parade will take place at the Old Irish Centre on March 17, Tuesday. The anniversary parade promises to be “the biggest and best yet — with music, dance, colour, and Irish pride filling the streets. Bands, floats, and community groups are all welcome, and the whole city is invited to join in the festivities”, as per the official website.

The UK’s most beautiful places have been ranked and one English spot has particularly impressed thanks to its enchanting scenery and quaint villages

A beautiful region full of rolling green hills, lakes with azure waters and charming villages that are the stuff of fairytales has been named England’s most beautiful place for 2026.

The Lake District has long been attracting visitors from around the world, often featuring on rankings of the more scenic spots and picturesque landmarks across Britain. Now, it’s been named one of the UK’s most beautiful places, taking the silver medal in new rankings from Big 7 Travel.

“England’s largest national park, the Lake District, is surely one of the UK’s most beautiful areas,” the team behind the research explained. “Whether it’s grass-covered fells, England’s highest mountain (Scafell Pike), beautiful lakes such as Ullswater and Windermere or quaint towns like Grasmere and Keswick, the Lake District has it all. Perfect for everyone from hikers to swimmers, photographers to artists and more, the Lake District is easily one of the most beautiful places in the UK.”

While it’s hardly a hidden gem, it’s not difficult to see why the Lake District is so popular with tourists. There are plenty of breathtaking lakes to explore in the region – 16 in fact – with popular highlights including the likes of Lake Windemere, Derwentwater and Ullswater which boast a host of water sports facilities and attractions. (Families may particularly want to bookmark the World of Beatrix Potter which brings the stories of Peter Rabbit and his friends to life).

Then of course that lush green landscape is packed with everything from scenic strolls to epic hiking trails, depending on how far you want to cover in your hiking boots. Oh, and the region is renowned for the many, many brilliant pubs where you can warm up by a fire, tuck into a hearty roast and enjoy a well-deserved drink after a busy day of exploring.

As for where to stay, there’s a plethora of accommodation to choose from, with the likes of Sykes Holiday Cottages and Holidaycottages.co.uk both offering up some brilliant options that look like the stuff of storybooks, or if you fancy treating yourself to a hotel stay, TripAdvisor has a handy guide to some of the best cheap Lake District hotels you’ll want on your radar.

Meanwhile, if you’re after more staycation inspiration then you could of course head to the UK’s most beautiful destination in the rankings. That accolade went to the Queen’s View in the Scottish Highlands, a picturesque viewing point that overlooks Loch Tummel. One of its most famous visitors, Queen Victoria, arrived at the site in 1866 and reportedly assumed that the location was named after her. (In reality, It is thought that it was named after Isabella, Robert the Bruce’s first wife, who lived more than 500 years before Victoria’s visit).

You can see the top 10 rankings below…

The UK’s top 10 most beautiful places

1. Queen’s View – Perthshire, Scotland
2. The Lake District – Cumbria, England
3. The Forest of Dean – Gloucestershire, England
4. Fairy Pools – Isle of Skye, Scotland
5. Rathlin Island – County Antrim, Northern Ireland
6. Berwyn Mountains – Powys, Wales
7. Heights of Abraham – Derbyshire, England
8. Holkham Beach – Norfolk, England
9. Eilean Donan Castle – Highlands, Scotland
10. Knaresborough – North Yorkshire, England

You can find out more on enjoytravel.com.

Is there a destination you think deserved to be in the top 10 rankings? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

A Strictly pro who joined the show in 2022 has shared two words that sum up their thoughts on former host Claudia Winkleman, who announced her departure last year

A professional dancer from Strictly Come Dancing has shared two words that sum up their thoughts on former host Claudia Winkleman. A Chinese Strictly pro who joined the show in 2022 and lifted the Glitterball trophy with former Lioness Karen Carney last year, Carlos Gu was recently quizzed about whether he’d like to step into Claudia and Tess Daly’s shoes.

In October last year, the duo shocked fans by announcing they would be stepping away from their joint presenting duties on the BBC programme, sparking widespread speculation about their replacements.

Carlos doesn’t seem eager to throw his hat into the ring, though, noting that he doesn’t believe he could “ever be a presenter,” but he did have some kind things to say about the former hosts.

In a recent interview, Carlos was asked if he would like to take over from Claudia and Tess, to which he replied that he “didn’t see this coming” and that he loves them both.

He told Best Magazine’s Suddenly Single podcast: “I love Claudia and Tess. I love both of them. They are just iconic and obsessed about Claudia, too, personally. I love her.”

It was then suggested that Claudia was “kooky,” to which Carlos responded: “Very witty, very cool.” And, when it was claimed that the Traitors star “doesn’t like looking in the mirror,” he added that she knows her “value.”

Carlos continued: “No, it’s just, oh, she’s a woman who knows her value, and she knows everything about herself, and she’s so confident with it, which is so powerful. Like, Tess is, too, you know.”

In response to the original question, the dancer explained that he was a “born performer” and would “die on stage,” but doesn’t think he could “ever be a presenter.”

At the time of their announcement, Claudia and Tess shared a message on Instagram that reflected on their time on the show, noting that they “loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream.”

It represents the end of a remarkable 21-year journey for Tess, who, in addition to Claudia, also revealed that they were “always going to leave together” and that they felt it was the “right time.”

Speaking on Instagram, Tess shared: “After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing. It’s hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here goes…

“Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It’s felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special, but I could never have imagined the magic it would bring.

“Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together – and I’m so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many.”

Through skiing, he has achieved that.

He first experienced the sport on a trip with friends, but it was only two years ago that he realised this was his way to make his mark on the world.

“I touched the snow, and I never turned back,” he said. Etienne wanted to become the Caribbean nation’s first Winter Paralympian.

“At first skiing meant freedom to me, and then I realised it was inspiration. That is what the Paralympics are about.

“It is a message of hope to disabled people and the rest of the world.”

With US restrictions on Haitian immigration rights making it difficult for him to travel to train, last year – supported by his employer Bank of America – Etienne relocated from New York to London to be closer to the mountains of Europe for weekend training.

“Sometimes I’m leaving the office at 2am because I have work I need to finish before I get on a 6am flight to get to Switzerland,” he told the Wall Street Journal, external.

On Friday, after just 80 days on snow in his life, he achieved his dream of racing at the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics.

Aided by a 12-month grant from the International Paralympic Committee’s Sport for Mobility programme, he has joined athletes from El Salvador, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Portugal in making their nations’ debut at the Games.

His result, a disqualification on his second run of the standing giant slalom, is secondary to his story.

“Haiti has a skier. That’s the most beautiful sentence I have heard in a long time,” he said.

“On the first run I proved that Haiti can ski competitively. Before the race, I had won.

“I get to say that there is hope, I get to tell the Haitian youth that if I can do this today with one leg, they can do anything.

“I’ve gone from the earthquake rubble to the top of the Dolomites with the very best skiers in the world.

“Anything is possible. I get to show young Haitians that all is not lost.”

British tourists who’ve jetted off to Tenerife to make the most of the island’s reputation as the “island of eternal spring” have been experiencing a “disappointing” holiday because of one issue

For those looking to escape the drizzle and freezing conditions of dreary Britain weather in favour of sand, sun, and some well-deserved rest, Tenerife is usually a safe bet. However, many visitors heading to the Spanish island – the largest of the popular Canary Islands and a firm favourite among Brits – this month have been left “disappointed”.

Tenerife is famed for its many beaches, holiday resorts, bars, restaurants, and stunning landscapes made up of volcanic mountains, vast national parks, and much more. It’s a perfect location for hiking, relaxing and observing the stars.

It’s appealing thanks to its reputation as the “island of eternal spring“, which comes from its temperate and stable climate all year round, where temperatures typically hover between 20 and 28 degrees.

Yet many Brits who’d been anticipating some sunshine and warmth are instead dealing with an unexpected chill. On the popular TikTok account Tenerife First Excursions, one man shared a first-hand account.

Speaking directly to the camera, he said: “If you’re wanting to know what the weather is like at the moment in Tenerife then I’m gonna disappoint you.”

He turned the camera to reveal thick grey clouds above, although there were patches of blue sky and bright sunshine breaking through in certain areas. He went on: “It has been like this for the last four or five days now, with a little bit of sunshine for an hour or so in between.”

He continued: “It’s been a disappointing week but then again, a lot of people are here for Cheltenham [Festival] so everyone’s in the bars, day drinking, having a good time. The sunshine is back on the weekend, though. I said to someone the other day, they absolutely love it. I said, ‘I absolutely love it when the sun’s back and I’d leave it with that.'”

In the comments section, fellow social media users were keen to share their views. One said: “Can’t believe how lucky I was. I was there for two weeks in Feb and it was scorching every day. Brilliant sunshine every day.”

Another wrote: “We come Sunday praying it gets warmer.” A third said: “I’m here on Tuesday! Hoping it improves!”

A fourth posted: “Here now and I did not bring enough warm clothes.” Someone else said: “It was c*** when I was there a couple of weeks ago. Roll on June.”

Another commented: “Dontttt I was there in Jan and it was perfect so I booked to come back again next week. I hope it gets better.”

One TikTok user revealed: “Mum and dad arrived yesterday and they are cold!! Been sat in hoodies in [the] apartment.”

Another said: “Been like that for 10 days now.” Someone else shared: “We left on Tuesday been there a week was absolutely gutted, no hot days till we were leaving, just my luck.”

However, one person added: “Absolutely love [Tenerife] whatever the weather.”

Iranian state TV video shows the Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i speaking to a reporter when a blast, described by officials as an Israeli strike, hit near the al-Quds Day rally in Tehran. Despite the explosion, he continued marching with crowds taking part in the annual pro-Palestinian demonstration.

Tens of thousands of people have gathered around the world for al-Quds Day, an annual event on the final Friday of Ramadan demonstrating solidarity with Palestine and opposition to Israeli occupation.

Rallies took place across numerous countries, including Iran, Malaysia, Indonesia, Kashmir and Yemen. In Tehran, thousands marched, chanting “death to Israel” and “death to America” as the United States-Israeli military campaign entered its 14th day of conflict.

The event has long been associated with Iran, and was established by the country’s first supreme leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1979.

This year’s observance coincided with the US-Israel attack on Iran that has killed at least 1,444 people, including the Iranian supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

Crowds turned out in Tehran and other cities, despite ongoing US and Israeli strikes in the region during the commemoration, state media reported.

Demonstrators worldwide expressed solidarity with both Palestinians and Iranians. In Kashmir, protesters burned mock coffins bearing images of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while shouting slogans against the United States and Israel.

For the first time in 40 years, the United Kingdom banned London’s al-Quds Day march, citing risks of public disorder related to the “volatile situation in the Middle East” and potential confrontations between opposing groups. This marks the first protest ban since 2012, when authorities prohibited marches by the far-right English Defence League.

According to Iran’s Health Ministry, another 18,551 people have been injured in US-Israeli attacks on Iran since February 28.

AS SPRING emerges, your Instagram feed will soon look like a sea of pink as people head off to find cherry trees blossoming – and the UK has some great free spots to see them.

Known as ‘hanami’, the tradition of seeing cherry blossoms is a centuries-old Japanese custom.

Taking place in the spring, the tradition celebrates the blossoms which symbolise new beginnings, mortality and the beauty of life.

While the UK doesn’t have anywhere near as many blossom trees as Japan does, there are several locations across the UK where you can catch them blooming for free – here’s some of the best.

Battersea Park, London

In South West London, head to Battersea Park and you will find a long run of cherry blossom trees on Cherry Tree Avenue.

If heading to the park, make sure to enjoy a wander next to the River Thames whilst seeing the 40 blossom trees.

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The trees are the pale pink Yoshino variety that are usually found on the hills of Nara – they grow to about 3.6 to 4.2metres tall.

The park is also home to a Peace Pagoda which you can see, as well as a couple of popular cafes.

Keele University

Keele University campus is open year round to visitors, with free parking at the weekends.

Cherry blossoms are scattered across the campus, but you can download a map of where they are from the university’s website.

Flowering cherry trees have been at the university since the 1940s and in total, there are around 300 trees of 240 species and varieties.

This makes it one of the largest blossom collections in Europe.

Cathays Park, Wales

In Cardiff, head to Cathays Park and find the Welsh National War Memorial in Alexandra Gardens.

Here you will find flourishing cherry blossom trees that usually bloom in late March to early April.

The trees surround the war memorial and are pink and white blossoms.

There are also some other flower beds, with tulips, to see.

To make the most of your time in the park, there are several benches nearby ideal for enjoying coffee whilst seeing the blossoms.

Greenwich Park, London

Greenwich Park is a lovely day out anytime of the year, with the Observatory and the Planetarium.

But during the spring months, near the Ranger’s House and Rose Garden, you will find a path of cherry trees.

There are even benches underneath the trees so you can sit and enjoy them.

The Stray, Harrogate

In Harrogate, make sure to visit the Stray – 200 acres of parkland near the town centre.

Long lines of pink cherry blossom bloom in late March to early April, often with daffodils underneath them.

Around 200 cherry trees were planted back in 1953 in the park to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

People even have wedding celebrations under the blossom…

Windsor Great Park

In Windsor, head to The Savill and Valley Gardens to see a collection of Japanese cherry trees.

The gardens sprawl over 250 acres and you will also be able to spot magnolia trees in full bloom.

Whilst in Windsor Great Park, make sure to stroll past the Heather Gardens as well.

St Paul’s Cathedral, London

Working in the city? Well, during your lunch break head down to St Paul’s Cathedral, where you will see a number of cherry trees.

They are scattered throughout the churchyard and make the ideal scenic foreground for a shot of the iconic London landmark.

If you haven’t visited St Paul’s before, you could tie in seeing the blossom with a day trip to the cathedral.

Sun Travel Reporter recently visited and has shared a full rundown of what it is like.

The Meadows, Scotland

The Meadows is a large public park south of Edinburgh‘s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.

The park is even protected by an Act of Parliament, that was created in 1827.

During the spring, there are avenues of cherry trees.

They are known to bloom a little later than other places, usually starting to bloom in April.

Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline

Up in Dunfermline, Scotland, head to Pittencrieff Park and walk along the path near the main entrance to enjoy a row of cherry trees that line the path.

The cherry trees usually blossom here in late April and whilst you are exploring the park, make sure to look out for its resident peacocks and the Andrew Carnegie statue.

Nearby, you can also visit Dunfermline Abbey and Palace.

Castle Park, Bristol

Castle Park in Bristol is an open space between the city’s Shopping Quarter and the Floating Harbour.

In addition to ruins in the park, visitors will be able to find different cherry trees.

One spot is the cherry avenue, with 21 trees.

And the other spot is a singular, white Japanese Cherry Tree that was planted in 2014 to mark the 70th anniversary of Hiroshima.

This type of cherry tree had actually died out completely in Japan, but was saved when a single specimen of the tree was found in England in 1923.

For more things to do this spring, here’s a huge list of 100 free family days out in the UK – from concerts to kids festivals.

Plus, free things to do across the UK this month including huge parades, story festivals and rugby screenings.

MEXICO CITY — Cuba has begun direct talks with the United States in an effort to solve “bilateral differences” between the two countries, Cuban President Miguel Díaz Canel said Friday.

The comments, broadcast nationwide in Cuba, are the first confirmation of bilateral talks between two governments that have been fierce adversaries for almost 70 years, since Fidel Castro’s revolution toppled the U.S.-backed dictator Fulgencio Batista.

What exactly the talks are about remains unclear, but the Trump administration—which has choked off oil supplies to the island, triggering a severe energy crisis—has been insisting that Cuba’s communist government must change.

In a statement released on social media, Díaz Canel said, “The primary purpose of this conversation is, firstly, to identify the bilateral problems that require a solution—based on their severity and impact—and, secondly, to find solutions for these identified problems.”

Rumors of direct talks between the two nations have been circulating for months, but neither Washington or Havana had confirmed the talks until now.

On Tuesday, the Cuban ambassador to the United States, Lianys Torres Rivera, told The Times that the Cuban government was “ready to engage with the U.S. on the issues that are important for the bilateral relations, and to talk about those in which we have differences.”

Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, have been insistent that the current government must change.

“It may be a friendly takeover, it may not be a friendly takeover,” Trump told Latin American leaders gathered in Florida on Saturday.

“It wouldn’t matter because they’re down to, as they say, fumes. They have no energy. They have no money. They’re in deep trouble,” Trump said.

Trump responded to the Cuban leader’s willingness to negotiate on Friday morning by amplifying a news article with the headline:”Cuba confirms talks with Trump officials, raising hopes for US deal.” He posted that on his Truth Social account.

Rolling blackouts, shortages of food and medicine, a lack of gasoline and other shortfalls have become everyday occurrences on the island, home to 10 million. Images of uncollected garbage rotting on Havana’s streets have been broadcast across the globe. A lack of jet fuel has bludgeoned the critical tourism sector.

“The status quo is unsustainable,” Rubio said last month. “Cuba needs to change…And it doesn’t have to be change all at once. It doesn’t have to change from one day to the next.”

The Cuban announcement comes 13 days after the U.S. attacked Iran and two months after U.S. forces, deployed by Trump, deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a longtime Cuban ally, and brought him to New York to face drug trafficking charges.

“Beast Mode” started as a phrase people used to describe the running style of former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch.

“I think it was just my relentlessness and my no-back-down type of demeanor when it came to running the ball, like, ‘Boy, that boy a beast,’” Lynch said. “And it’s like, yeah, when I get the ball, that’s what type of mode I’m in — I’m in beast mode.”

Lynch played 12 seasons for the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks and Oakland Raiders, amassing 10,413 in 2,453 carries with 85 touchdowns. Somewhere along the way, he said, the phrase “Beast Mode” evolved into “this persona bigger than myself.”

“The way that I get approached by kids and fans, like the way that they approach me is almost as if I am like a character so to speak, and I don’t think that I was doing it justice because I’m like, ‘Well s—, I’m just only a man,” the Super Bowl XLVIII champion said.

“But I believe in their mind what they had made up as Beast Mode is this larger-than-life, kind of surreal individual.”

An early look at a page from the upcoming “Beast Mode 510” graphic novel, starring Marshawn Lynch as the title character. Text will be added closer to the Oct. 6 publishing date.

(Art by Denys Cowan / Courtesy of AWA)

Lynch is embracing that perception of himself … and Beast Mode is about to become a literal comic book hero.

On Friday, Arists Writers and Artisans announced the graphic novel “Beast Mode 510,” which is scheduled to be released Oct. 6. Written by NAACP Image Award-nominated author Sheldon Allen and illustrated by Eisner Hall of Fame artist Denys Cowan, the book was “inspired and guided by” Lynch and is a “deeply personal love letter” to his hometown Oakland, according to a news release from AWA.

“At its center is Beast Mode: the 510’s legendary fixer and freelance sleuth whose rough exterior hides a code of loyalty and willingness to deal with problems others won’t touch,” the release reads. “If you’ve got a problem the authorities won’t handle, Beast Mode will. No invoices. No contracts. Just results.”

AWA chief creative officer Axel Alonso said when he was approached by Lynch and his team about possibly working on a project together, the idea of turning Beast Mode into an almost superhuman crime fighter quickly came to mind.

“To use a football analogy, when Marshawn and his people came to me and said, ‘Can you do anything with this, Beast Mode?’ it was like they gave me the ball on the one-yard line and I had to just walk it in — and Pete Carroll wasn’t the coach, so I could just go right in,” Alonso said, referring to an infamous play at the end of Seattle’s loss to New England in Super Bowl XLIX.

“It was as easy as that. I was like, come on, ‘Beast Mode’? So automatically I talked with Marshawn and said, ‘What’s important to you?’”

Lynch’s input has been key every step of the way, Alonso said, with the five-time Pro Bowl selection getting final say on every aspect. Lynch said he appreciates having his voice heard and being able to put his stamp on the project.

“From the start, we just sat down and had a conversation about where it was that we wanted to go, what is the kind of feel, the look that we want, the kind of tone that we want to tell the story,” Lynch said.

Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Seattle Seahawks runs for a 67-yard touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during an NFC wild-card playoff game Jan. 8, 2011, at Qwest Field.

(Jonathan Ferrey / Getty Images)

An early look at pages from the upcoming “Beast Mode 510” graphic novel starring Super Bowl champion Marshawn Lynch as an underground crime fighter.

(Art by Denys Cowan / Courtesy of AWA)

“I can’t draw or nothing like that, but any type of update or anything Axel will get over to me and, you know what I mean, yea or nay. And then when it comes to like how certain characters would look, certain names, individuals — I would say I’m involved, but I’m not stepping on their toes.”

For Lynch, one of the top priorities was to bring attention to all the unique aspects of his beloved city.

“We kinda have Oakland being a character of its own,” he said. “The personality of what Oakland stands for is something that I would really like to highlight ‘cause I feel that my city gets overlooked. And then the amount of individuals that we have coming out of area, it’s also an opportunity to show a nod to a lot of the Bay Area cultures and icons that we have.”

Even though the book is fiction, Lynch insisted on authenticity in the depictions of the city and the people who live there, including the way they look, act and speak.

“I think the biggest thing will probably be just the way that I speak in general,” Lynch said. “Mother— from where I’m from, we talk with a certain type of a tone, a type of swag.”

An early look at a page from the upcoming “Beast Mode 510” graphic novel. Marshawn Lynch says his character was inspired by the larger-than-life persona fans sometimes associate with him.

(Art by Denys Cowan / Courtesy of AWA.)

And, judging from Lynch’s signature way of talking, a lot of profanity.

None of Lynch’s ideas has been toned down.

“This is an R-rated book,” Alonso said.

“I want this s— to be turned up to the max,” Lynch added, “so if a mother— do pick this up to read, it’s gonna be like, ‘Oh, this some real s—.’ As well as entertaining, as well as insightful and impactful.”

Lynch is used to keeping people entertained, including as the co-host of the “Get Got Pod” with former Seahawks teammate Mike Robinson and as an actor with numerous roles in TV and film (including a breakout performancein 2023’s “Bottoms”).

He said he’s proud of how the project is turning out.

“When you see work and be like, ‘Damn that s— was nice’ and you start thinking about the thought process and how they got to those points, how they got to those things that drew you in, those things that give you that warm feeling,” Lynch said, “I’m feeling like I’m living that as this s— is going.

“Which is crazy as f— because I played in Super Bowls, I walked the red carpet of f—in’ premieres, and this one feels like, out of a lot of s—, this one is capturing that feeling for me. I’m a [Black man] — you know we don’t feel too much. But when we do, we be like, ‘Oh yeah, you know this s— is special.’”

March 13 (UPI) — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth downplayed the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz during a press briefing Friday and claimed 15,000 Iranian targets have been struck.

Hegseth said the U.S. and Israeli air forces are flying over Iran and Tehran Friday, the 13th day of the operation. He claimed that Iran’s air defenses, navy and munitions supply have been defeated.

Iran’s missile volume was down by 90% and its one-way attack drones were down by 95% on Thursday, Hegseth said.

“Today as we speak we fly over the top of Iran and Tehran,” Hegseth said. “Fighters and bombers, all day picking targets as they choose.”

The defense secretary opened Friday’s briefing at the Pentagon, joined again by Gen. Dan Caine, saying that the United States is “decimating the radical Iranian regime’s military in a way the world has never seen before.”

“We said it would not be a fair fight and it has not been,” he said.

Caine lauded the use of the first precision-strike missiles used in combat by the United States, praising the troops that fired them. One of those soldiers was 20 years old and has only been in the U.S. Army for six months.

Caine’s comments on the precision of U.S. strikes come as the military is investigating a deadly strike on an elementary school for girls in Iran that took place on Feb. 28. The preliminary investigation has found that the United States is likely responsible for the attack that killed more than 170 people, most of them children.

“They’ve done all of this with the precision and determination that comes from relentless training and trust in each other and their weapons systems,” Caine said.

Hegseth said the United States is “dealing with” Iran’s attacks on vessels on the Strait of Hormuz, which has dramatically disrupted the oil trade.

“It’s something we’re dealing with, we have been dealing with it and don’t need to worry about it,” Hegseth said. “We’re on plan to defeat, destroy and disable all of their meaningful military capabilities on a pace the world has never seen before.”

Caine later said that there is some traffic moving through the strait.

As Iran’s military capabilities weaken, Hegseth said, more importantly, it does not possess the capability to build more weapons.

“Soon and very soon all of Iran’s defense companies will be destroyed,” Hegseth. “For example, as of two days ago, all of Iran’s ballistic missile production capacity, every company that builds every component of those missiles, has been functionally defeated, destroyed.”

As for Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, Hegseth said he is “likely disfigured.” Khamenei was wounded during the initial strikes by the United States and Israel on Tehran on Feb. 28, which killed his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

President Donald Trump shared similar speculation about the new supreme leader on Fox News on Friday, saying he believes he is alive but “damaged.”

“I think he probably is,” Trump said. “I think he’s damaged but I think he’s probably alive in some form.”