Philly-Afghan Info Hub Weekly Newsletter - Feb 20, 2026

US News

1. Trump Convenes Inaugural Meeting of “Board of Peace”

• Donald Trump hosted the inaugural meeting of a newly established “Board of Peace,” with representatives from 20 countries. The board’s stated goal is to help resolve global conflicts, positioning itself as an alternative peace forum similar to the United Nations.
• A main focus of the board is ending tensions between Israel and Palestine. Several board members pledged a combined $7 billion toward a proposed Gaza relief package, though rebuilding Gaza is estimated to cost roughly $70 billion.
• During the meeting, Trump declared the war in Gaza over, despite reports that more than 600 people have been killed in Gaza since a ceasefire was established last October. Israel has warned it may resume full military action against Hamas if the group does not disarm within 60 days.
• An international Stabilization Force is expected to be deployed in Gaza to serve as a buffer between Israel and Gaza.
• Critics have questioned the credibility of the board Critics have questioned the credibility of the board, noting that Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin are participants. Both leaders face arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes.

Why It Matters: The creation of a new international peace forum signals a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy strategy and global leadership. Questions about legitimacy, accountability, and the involvement of controversial world leaders could affect how seriously the initiative is viewed by allies and adversaries alike. Financial pledges for Gaza reconstruction and proposals such as an international stabilization force also carry significant geopolitical and economic implications. How this effort unfolds could influence regional stability, U.S. diplomatic credibility, and America’s role in shaping global conflict resolution.

2. US-Iran Tensions

• Donald Trump is reportedly considering possible military strikes against Iran after negotiations between the United States and Iran stalled over Tehran’s nuclear program.
• The U.S., along with Israel, has pushed for Iran to halt its ballistic missile program and sever ties with armed groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
• Iranian officials argue that negotiations should remain focused strictly on the nuclear program, which they maintain is intended for peaceful purposes.

Why it matters: Escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran could have global economic and security consequences, including impacts on energy markets and regional stability. For Iranian-American communities and others with ties to the region, the possibility of military conflict raises concerns about family safety, travel restrictions, and renewed political scrutiny. Historically, periods of heightened U.S.–Middle East tensions have also led to increased fear of discrimination or backlash affecting diaspora communities across the country.

Philadelphia News

1. City Council Members Raise Concerns Over School Closure Plan

• Several members of the Philadelphia City Council have expressed concern over the school district’s plan to close 20 schools. Some of the concerns include the schools being closed by 2027 being too soon, transportation issues and the schools that are closing consisting of primarily black students.
•  The School District of Philadelphia is governed by its board of education - not the Philadelphia City Council -  Despite this, the city council does have considerable sway in how school districts' plans will be finalized due to the city council providing considerable funding to the school district.

Why it matters: School closures can reshape entire neighborhoods. For immigrant and working-class families, local schools often provide stability, language services, after-school programs, and trusted community spaces. Transportation challenges can be particularly difficult for families without reliable access to cars. At the same time, concerns about racial equity and resource distribution highlight broader questions about who benefits — and who bears the burden — of large-scale education reforms in Philadelphia.

International News

1. Ramadan 2026 Begins

• Muslims around the world began observing Ramadan on February 18 following confirmed crescent moon sightings in multiple countries.
• Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and is determined by the lunar cycle, meaning its start date shifts each year.
• The holy month is marked by daily fasting from sunrise to sunset, along with increased prayer, charity, and community gatherings.

Why it matters: Ramadan significantly shapes daily routines, work schedules, school life, and business hours in Muslim communities worldwide. In cities like Philadelphia, the month also brings expanded evening gatherings, charitable efforts, and special dining offerings that reflect the city’s cultural diversity.

2. Iftar & Suhoor Spots

Here are some Philadelphia restaurants offering iftar specials or extended late-night/suhoor hours during Ramadan:

1. Alamodak - located in Fishtown
2. Tent Halal Food
3. Uyghur Noodle king
4. Jakk Frost Halal breakfast - open for Suhoor time
5. Silk Way Philadelphia
6. Malooga - located in Old city
7. Yes Yasmine Kitchen 
8. Paprika Grill
9. Mood Cafe
10. WokWorks - several locations across Philly