The United States has temporarily closed El Paso International Airport, located near the border with Juarez, Mexico and close to the Biggs Army Airfield, citing 'special security reasons.' The FAA announced the suspension on Wednesday, though they did not elaborate on the specific threats or concerns prompting this action. The airport made an announcement via Instagram confirming that all flights have been halted and are awaiting further instructions from the FAA.

Flight restrictions have also been imposed in the airspace above the nearby community of Santa Teresa in New Mexico. The FAA's restrictions will remain in effect until February 21, and they cover a radius of approximately 18 kilometers from the airport, deliberately excluding Mexican airspace from these measures. Such actions by the FAA underline heightened security protocols in border areas, significantly impacting travel and military operations in the vicinity.

This situation raises questions about the reasons behind the abrupt restrictions, as the FAA has not immediately responded to inquiries regarding the security measures. With El Paso being a critical point of entry and exit between the US and Mexico, this closure could have ramifications on both domestic transportation and cross-border relations. Observers will be keen to see what further information emerges and how long the restrictions will remain in place.