Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 101-150 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:44 WIB
Grain Prices in Pidie, Aceh, Plummet at Start of Gadu Harvest Season
Farmers in Pidie Regency, Aceh, have begun the gadu (second) rice harvest but are facing a sharp drop in unhusked grain prices, falling from Rp9,300 to Rp7,800 per kilogramme. Local farmer representatives allege that middlemen and local mill owners are manipulating prices by buying directly at harvest sites and setting rates unilaterally. The decline has raised concerns among farmers as only five of the regency's 23 sub-districts have started harvesting so far.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:43 WIB
MenPAN-RB Urges Public to Interpret Independence by Strengthening One Another
Minister for Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Rini Widyantini has called on Indonesians to mark the 81st anniversary of independence with mutual care and solidarity, particularly for communities affected by natural disasters in regions such as East Nusa Tenggara. Speaking after the proclamation ceremony at Merdeka Palace, she also outlined her ministry's commitment to bureaucratic reform and public service improvement. The minister emphasised eight strategic transformation steps as a guide for the next five years towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:43 WIB
Atmosphere of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at IKN, Led by Pak Bas
The 81st Independence Day flag-raising ceremony at the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) ceremonial plaza proceeded solemnly and smoothly, attended by around 3,000 participants. Head of the IKN Authority Basuki Hadimuljono officiated the ceremony, which featured a flag-hoisting by the Paskibra team and cultural performances. The event underscored IKN's role as an integrated part of the national celebration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:43 WIB
Motorcyclist Beaten by Funeral Procession Escort in East Jakarta
A motorcyclist in East Jakarta was allegedly assaulted by a group escorting a funeral procession after a traffic dispute escalated. The victim sustained facial injuries and his motorcycle was severely damaged. Police are investigating the incident, which highlights ongoing concerns about road violence involving funeral convoys.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:40 WIB
Bogor Palace opens to residents for 81st Indonesian Independence Day
Bogor Presidential Palace opened its doors to residents of Bogor City for a public banquet marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event, organised in cooperation with the city government and local leadership forum, invited representatives from 68 urban villages, prioritising underprivileged residents. Mayor Dedie A. Rachim expressed hope that the occasion would become a tradition bridging the gap between the public and government.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:40 WIB
Minister Nusron Claims Land Measurement Waiting Time at 446 Land Offices Now Averages One Day
Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid has announced that the average waiting time for scheduled land measurement services at 446 land offices has been reduced to between zero and one day. The improvement is part of a broader service transformation aimed at providing certainty and better quality for first-time land registration applicants. Only four land offices still have waiting times exceeding seven days due to staffing shortages, which the ministry plans to address through personnel redistribution.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:37 WIB
Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs showcases 'Digital Indonesia Weave' at Independence Day carnival
The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs presented a float themed 'Anyaman Indonesia Digital' during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day carnival at Monas, Jakarta. Minister Meutya Hafid joined the float and distributed souvenirs to spectators. The carnival was attended by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, with several other ministers participating on their respective ministry floats.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:36 WIB
Indonesian citizens in Geneva celebrate Independence Day with solidarity for NTT earthquake victims
Indonesian citizens and diaspora in Geneva marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence with a ceremony that also expressed solidarity with victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Ambassador Sidharto R. Suryodipuro emphasised that being far from home strengthens national bonds and reminds Indonesians abroad of the importance of mutual care. The event featured traditional attire and the awarding of Satyalancana Karya Satya honours to two civil servants.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:35 WIB
46,700 People Flock to Ancol Tourist Area for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk recorded a surge in visitors during the 81st Independence Day celebrations, with 46,700 people entering the North Jakarta tourist complex by 8pm on Monday. The beach areas and Dunia Fantasi recreation unit were the main attractions, supported by free entry for those who had made prior reservations. Festivities included an underwater flag-raising ceremony at Sea World and various traditional competitions.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:34 WIB
Merdeka Night Carnival: Bahlil Sports Papuan Headdress, BGN Chief Hands Out Meal Boxes
Indonesian cabinet ministers joined the Merdeka Night Carnival in Jakarta to mark the 81st Independence Day, parading on decorated floats and engaging directly with the public. President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka opened the event, which featured creative displays from various ministries. The carnival highlighted government programmes, including the National Nutrition Agency's meal distribution and the Ministry of Agriculture's showcase of domestic produce.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:34 WIB
Following Surabaya's Lead, Badung Regency Designs Cashless Parking System
Badung Regency is studying Surabaya's digital parking retribution system to curb regional revenue leakage. The scheme would require parking attendants to wear barcode-equipped jackets and use electronic devices to process payments. Revenue from each transaction would be automatically split between the attendant and the regional treasury.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:32 WIB
Clean Energy Brings Independence Day Celebration to Sembur Island Residents
Residents of Sembur Island in Batam held their first-ever Independence Day ceremony, powered by a 1 MWp solar power plant developed by Pertamina NRE and the Ministry of Cooperatives. The project, which includes battery storage, an ice factory, and cold storage, aims to support around 200 households and boost the local fishing economy. Pertamina NRE's CEO highlighted the initiative as an example of how clean energy can improve livelihoods and enable community activities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:32 WIB
Marjorie Taylor Greene Claims Trump Administration Discussing Nuclear Weapons Use Against Iran
Former US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has alleged that the Trump administration is discussing the use of nuclear weapons against Iran in strategy meetings. Greene, once a close Trump ally, urged Americans to oppose any escalation, warning of a potential global nuclear holocaust and economic depression. Her claims come amid reports that the Pentagon is developing strategies for greater use of short-range tactical nuclear weapons in regional conflicts.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:30 WIB
Sekolah Rakyat Student Serves in Flag-Lowering Ceremony at the Palace
Ismi Ulfaida, a 16-year-old student from Sekolah Rakyat in Polewali Mandar, served as a member of the 2026 National Paskibraka during the flag-lowering ceremony at the State Palace. Her participation highlights the achievements of students from the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf expressed pride in her accomplishment.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:30 WIB
81 Years of Independence: These Commodities Make Indonesia King of the World
Indonesia remains a dominant global supplier of key commodities including palm oil, thermal coal, nickel, cloves, and cinnamon. The government is prioritising strategic commodity management through a new state-owned export company to strengthen foreign exchange earnings and industrialisation. Shifts in domestic consumption, such as biodiesel mandates, and downstream processing are reshaping Indonesia's export profile.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:30 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Reveals Government Priorities for Post-Earthquake Recovery in NTT
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has outlined the central government's priorities for post-earthquake recovery in East Nusa Tenggara, focusing on meeting the basic needs of affected communities. He emphasised the importance of thorough data collection and verification to ensure aid is distributed according to damage levels. Electricity restoration has reached 88 per cent, according to the state electricity company PLN.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:30 WIB
President Prabowo Appreciates Smooth Flag-Lowering Ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
President Prabowo Subianto expressed high appreciation for the orderly and solemn flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The President personally received the national flag and kissed it as a gesture of patriotism. The ceremony concluded with a procession returning the flag and proclamation text to the National Monument.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:30 WIB
QRIS Gets Cheaper! From October 2026, 0% MDR Applies to Transactions up to Rp100,000
Bank Indonesia is expanding its 0% Merchant Discount Rate policy for QRIS payments to cover all merchant categories for transactions up to Rp100,000, effective 1 October 2026. Micro businesses will continue to enjoy the 0% rate for transactions up to Rp500,000. The central bank says the move supports the Indonesia Payment System Blueprint 2030 and the government's goal of inclusive, efficient and sustainable economic growth.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:29 WIB
Indonesia's Rp5M e-motorcycle incentive awaits finance regulation
Indonesia's Industry Ministry says it is technically ready to roll out a planned Rp5 million per unit electric motorcycle incentive but cannot proceed until the Finance Ministry issues the necessary regulation. The programme, proposed by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, would initially target around 6 million motorcycles, with discussions ongoing over eligible brands involving the Industry Ministry, Danantara Indonesia, and the Finance Ministry.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:24 WIB
Putera Puteri Nusantara 2026 Successfully Held at Golden Tulip Essential Hotel Tangerang, Celebrating Culture and Young Talent
The Putera Puteri Nusantara 2026 pageant was held successfully at the Golden Tulip Essential Hotel Tangerang on 17 August 2026, providing a platform for young Indonesians to showcase confidence, creativity, and cultural appreciation. The event received support from the Tangerang City Culture and Tourism Office and featured a traditional costume parade highlighting Indonesia's regional diversity. Organisers emphasised that the competition focuses on character building and cultural identity, with winners expected to use the achievement as a stepping stone for future success.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:23 WIB
Trump Threatens to Attack Oman, Here Is the Background
US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if it obstructs US-Iran negotiations, while claiming Washington has direct channels with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The remarks follow an Iran-Oman technical agreement on shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also commented on Gaza and Israeli politics, saying Israel should stop attacking Gaza because Hamas has agreed to lay down its weapons.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:22 WIB
Commodity Futures Trading Deemed to Require a Safe and Sustainable Ecosystem
Indonesia's commodity futures trading sector is experiencing positive growth, but industry players argue this momentum will not last without a transparent, safe, and sustainable trading ecosystem. PT Didimax Berjangka is focusing on public education, customer support, digital trading technology, and human resource development to support this goal. The company also highlights the need for collaboration between brokers, exchanges, clearing institutions, and regulators to maintain market stability.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:21 WIB
KDM Shocked to Find Waste Uncleaned for 32 Years in Bandung
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi expressed shock after discovering that waste in a water channel in Bandung had not been cleaned for 32 years. The waste was only removed during the demolition of illegal structures in front of the West Java Provincial Education Office. He also criticised the feudal mentality of bureaucrats and called for improvements in public behaviour.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:20 WIB
Kediri Regent Urges Residents Not to Be Easily Swayed by Hoaxes on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Kediri Regent Hanindhito Himawan Pramana has called on residents to remain united and avoid being polarised by unverified information circulating on social media. Speaking after the 81st Independence Day ceremony in Pare, he urged the public to fill the independence period with positive activities and to show empathy for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The regent also expressed hope that Indonesia would become a sovereign, just and prosperous nation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:20 WIB
Why the KPK Will Not Investigate Ethics Violations by Police Officer Named as Extortion Suspect
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it will not pursue alleged ethics violations by Setya Budi Dias, a police officer assigned to the KPK who was named a suspect in an extortion case involving the Pemalang regency government. The KPK says Dias is no longer part of the commission, so the matter falls outside the jurisdiction of its ethics enforcement or supervisory board. The commission is nevertheless conducting an evaluation to prevent similar cases from recurring.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
Indonesia pushes 3 priority agendas to strengthen digital sovereignty
Indonesia's communications ministry has outlined three priority agendas to strengthen national digital sovereignty: developing the National Data Center, combating online gambling, and protecting children online. The initiatives include shutting down millions of gambling sites and bank accounts, as well as enforcing child protection regulations that have led platforms to deactivate millions of underage accounts. The measures are framed as part of the ministry's 2025–2029 Strategic Plan and the broader vision of a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
Ancol records 46,700 visitors on 17 August holiday
PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk reported 46,700 visitors to its North Jakarta recreation complex by 8pm on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The beach areas and Dufan amusement park were the most popular attractions. The company offered free entry to the Ancol gate for the holiday, with prior reservation required.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
KPK Will Not Pursue Ethics Violation Against Police Officer Named Suspect in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it will not pursue alleged ethics violations by Setya Budi Dias, a police officer assigned to the KPK who was named a suspect in an extortion case involving the Pemalang regent. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said Dias is no longer part of the commission, so the matter falls outside the KPK's ethics enforcement remit. The commission said it will still evaluate its internal processes to prevent similar cases from recurring.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
The Moon Continues to Move Away from Earth, How Significant Is the Impact?
The Moon is drifting away from Earth at a rate of approximately 3.8 centimetres per year due to tidal interactions. This gradual process is slowing Earth's rotation and lengthening the day by about 2.4 milliseconds per century. In the distant future, the Moon will appear too small to fully cover the Sun, meaning total solar eclipses will no longer occur.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:18 WIB
Indonesian Red Cross Distributes Hygiene Kits to NTT Earthquake Victims
The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has received 200 hygiene kits worth Rp50 million from the TBS Foundation for distribution to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The kits, containing essential sanitation items, will be channelled through PMI Kupang to support displaced residents during the emergency response and recovery period. The earthquake has resulted in 54 deaths, 115 serious injuries, and over 16,000 people sheltering in evacuation centres.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:17 WIB
Fisheries Office says eight KNMP to be built in Mimika
The Mimika Regency Fisheries Office has announced that eight coastal villages will receive Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) facilities as part of a national strategic programme. Three villages will serve as hub centres, while five others will act as supporting sites. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries will carry out the construction.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:16 WIB
Trump threatens to attack Oman if it disrupts US-Iran negotiations
US President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Oman if it interferes in Washington's negotiations with Tehran, while claiming direct back-channel contacts with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The remarks follow an Iranian announcement of a shipping route agreement in the Strait of Hormuz reached after technical talks with Oman. Trump also commented on Gaza and Israeli politics, urging Israel to halt attacks and suggesting he may endorse a candidate in Israel's elections.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:15 WIB
SBY Comments on Prabowo's Speech, Highlights 6% Economic Target
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has praised the direction of President Prabowo Subianto's development agenda for 2027, describing it as increasingly clear and hopeful. He specifically addressed the government's 6% economic growth target, calling it ambitious but achievable based on his own experience. SBY also urged the government to maintain fiscal health and ensure proper policy implementation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:15 WIB
Sixth Day of Search: 4 Victims of KMP Putri Yasmin Still Missing
The search for four missing passengers of the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry, which caught fire off Sekotong, West Lombok, has entered its sixth day without success. A Navy aircraft has been deployed to expand the search area over the southern waters of Java, while sea and land teams continue parallel operations. The ferry fire on 12 August 2026 resulted in 212 evacuations and one confirmed death.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:13 WIB
Jasa Raharja: Safety Is One Form of Independence
State-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja has reinforced its commitment to public safety and mobility as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The company framed road safety as a way of preserving independence in daily life, with a focus on data-driven service transformation. Its president director emphasised that every service improvement must be centred on the needs of the public.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:12 WIB
Askrindo distributes emergency aid for NTT disaster victims
State-owned insurer Askrindo has delivered emergency relief to victims of the earthquake that struck Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, coinciding with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The assistance includes medicines, staple foods, sanitation logistics and baby supplies, handed over to the provincial disaster mitigation agency. BNPB reports that infrastructure recovery is progressing, with electricity fully restored and roads passable, though search and rescue teams remain on standby in seven affected districts.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:12 WIB
DPR member hands over free ambulances to residents for Independence Day
Member of House Commission VII Novita Hardini has donated two humanitarian ambulances to residents of Trenggalek Regency, East Java, to strengthen local health services. The ambulances will be operated free of charge by IST and Ambulans Sigaling, with coordination through the Trenggalek Health Office. This marks the second such donation by the legislator, who cited high community demand and local government budget constraints.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
BNPB distributes aid to communities via sea and air routes
Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has dispatched logistical aid and basic necessities to communities affected by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake on Palue Island, East Nusa Tenggara, using both sea and air transport. The aid includes tents, food, blankets, generators, and medical support, with distribution facing challenges due to damaged roads. Electricity restoration and health services are also underway as part of the emergency response.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
BGN Evaluates MBG Kitchens in Karo, to Adopt Chemical Testing from Police SPPG
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is evaluating the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) service unit in Berastagi, Karo Regency, North Sumatra, after hundreds of students suffered food poisoning. The agency plans to introduce chemical test kits at all kitchens, following the model used by police-managed SPPG units which have recorded zero poisoning cases. BGN has already closed 1,300 underperforming kitchens in the past three weeks and aims for zero poisoning incidents across the programme.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Says Priority Plan Prepared for Post-Earthquake Handling in NTT
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has outlined priority measures for handling victims of the earthquake in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The immediate focus is on restoring electricity and distributing food logistics, with coordination planned with PLN and the Health Ministry. The minister also welcomed the deployment of the Navy's hospital ship KRI dr. Soeharso to support affected communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:07 WIB
Sekolah Rakyat Student Selected to Perform in Choir at Merdeka Palace
Jessie Nababan, an 18-year-old student from Sekolah Rakyat DKI Jakarta, performed in the choir at Merdeka Palace during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. She was one of 100 Sekolah Rakyat students from across the country who collaborated with the Gita Bahana Nusantara National Choir. Jessie, who had dropped out of school for four years due to her family's economic hardship, credited President Prabowo Subianto's Sekolah Rakyat programme with restoring her hope and dreams.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:07 WIB
Minister Nusron shifts land services from thematic to holistic paradigm
Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid has announced a fundamental shift in land administration services from a thematic, sector-based approach to a holistic, sub-district-based model. The reform assigns responsible officers to each kecamatan to oversee all land matters, from measurement to dispute resolution. The ministry expects the change to deliver faster, more integrated services and strengthen public trust in the government's agrarian performance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:07 WIB
State Ceremonial Attire Becomes Showcase for Local Products, Indonesian Fashion Industry Aims for World Class
Indonesian bespoke tailoring house Wong Hang Bersaudara played a prominent role in the 81st Independence Day celebrations at Monas and the Merdeka Palace, underscoring the local fashion industry's growing involvement in state events. The company showcased innovations including an AI-powered body measurement app and a tactical fashion collaboration, positioning Indonesian craftsmanship for global competitiveness.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:06 WIB
Separated from Family, 2.5-Year-Old Child Found at Bundaran HI MRT Station
A toddler was found separated from his family at Bundaran HI MRT station during the Malam Merdeka celebrations in Central Jakarta. Police secured the child at the Bundaran HI police post and announced his description over loudspeakers. The incident occurred amid large crowds gathered for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day festivities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:03 WIB
Indonesia sends 50 tons of aid to quake-hit NTT by sea
Indonesia's Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry has dispatched 50 tons of essential supplies by sea to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, with Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono flagging off the vessel in Kendari. The shipment, expected to arrive in Labuan Bajo within two days, includes food and medicines, with further deliveries of clothing, blankets, and generators planned for the emergency and recovery phases. The minister framed the relief effort as an expression of national solidarity and urged Indonesians to mark Independence Day by supporting fellow citizens in need.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:03 WIB
BEM UI Confirms It Has Submitted Notice of Demonstration to Police
The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) has formally notified the Central Jakarta Police about its planned demonstration at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout on Tuesday. The group insists it has fulfilled its legal obligations and now expects the state to guarantee freedom of expression. The protest, titled #MerebutKemerdekaan, will carry eight demands including an end to corruption, agrarian reform, and a review of national strategic projects.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:02 WIB
Baznas NTB Donations for NTT Earthquake Victims Reach Hundreds of Millions
The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of West Nusa Tenggara has raised hundreds of millions of rupiah to assist earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The funds were collected through various channels, including direct donor outreach, public events, mosques, and social media, with additional support from Baznas RI. Baznas NTB has also deployed two waves of evacuation and logistics teams to the affected areas.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
East Kalimantan Tourism Office raises Red and White flag underwater at Miang Island
The East Kalimantan Tourism Office commemorated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with an underwater flag-raising ceremony at Karang Latohan, Miang Island. The event aimed to honour national heroes while promoting the region's marine tourism potential. Officials hope the publicity will boost visitor numbers to the island.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Free health screening at Piwang Beach finds 30 residents with hypertension
A free health screening programme held by the Natuna Regency Government at Piwang Beach detected hypertension in 30 of 67 residents who took part. The initiative, part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations, also identified five people with elevated blood sugar levels. Health officials said the public screening was intended to bring basic health services closer to the community.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Centcom Chief Acknowledges Mental Health Challenges on USS Lincoln Aircraft Carrier
Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, has acknowledged mental health challenges faced by crew aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln following reports of sailors attempting to jump overboard during the carrier's extended deployment. While noting the ship has the lowest number of mental health cases among active US carriers, Cooper conceded that long sea deployments are not suitable for everyone. The acknowledgement comes amid criticism from US lawmakers and contrasting dismissals from President Trump and Defence Secretary Hegseth.