A frontpage overview of the news from The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times for February 19.

Tensions are high as the U.S. increases military air power in the Middle East while simultaneously withdrawing troops from Syria and managing a complex relationship with Israel regarding West Bank policies. On the domestic front, the Trump administration's tariff policies are reportedly increasing costs for American families, and a significant funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security is hindering disaster relief efforts. Meanwhile, California is mourning its deadliest avalanche in modern history, an event that has sparked intense criticism of a mountain guide company for ignoring severe weather warnings. The business world is grappling with stagnant job growth despite economic expansion, along with a global push to ban younger teens from social media due to mental health concerns. In sports, Mikaela Shiffrin's Olympic gold medal win provides a rare moment of triumph amidst these broader societal and political challenges.