Trump's Winning Streak Halted by Court Ruling

A US federal judge has ordered the government to provide at least 48 hours' notice of any activity at the site of the planned 76-m-tall triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. Exceptions are made for work aimed at identifying archaeological finds beneath the surface.

The ruling came a day after the Department of the Interior announced its intention to begin work soon, despite legal disputes and the lack of final approval from the government planning agency.

Lawyers representing three military veterans and an architectural historian have asked the court for a temporary injunction, arguing that the government lacks a legal basis for the construction and that the project requires congressional approval.

The administration cites a 1925 law, which it claims provides the necessary congressional approval. It also argues that the planned excavation of four test pits does not constitute the start of construction but is intended to assess the presence of archaeological or cultural materials.

According to its supporters, the memorial, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, is intended to honor American veterans. Opponents argue that it will disrupt the historic sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House. The project has not yet received final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, which is considering an exemption from the 40-m height limit.

(Reuters, max)