In a sudden move, the U.S. State Department has put a stop to programs that clear unexploded bombs and landmines in conflict areas like Iraq and Southeast Asia. This pause, announced early Saturday, will last at least three months and leaves many communities vulnerable to hidden dangers.

The decision comes as part of a broader review of foreign aid, ordered by the president. Karen R. Chandler, who leads the department’s Office of Weapons Reduction and Abatement, shared the news in an early morning email, thanking humanitarian groups for their lifesaving work.

This halt follows remarks from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized that U.S. foreign policy must focus solely on national interests. While the intent is to strengthen America, it’s worth noting that unexploded munitions also pose risks to U.S. troops abroad. For example, during the 1991 Gulf War, such hazards caused as many American casualties as enemy fire.

For now, organizations funded by the State Department are waiting for further instructions on Monday. Meanwhile, communities reliant on these programs face an uncertain future.

What happens next remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—this pause could have serious consequences for both local populations and international safety.