The Trump administration’s $60 billion cuts to USAID are halting crucial humanitarian aid in the Middle East and North Africa. A 90 percent reduction in funding affects Iraq, Syria, Gaza, Jordan, and Yemen, where millions rely on assistance for survival. This drastic move jeopardizes stability and increases the risk of humanitarian crises across the region.
The Trump administration’s significant aid cuts, totaling $60 billion, are negatively impacting vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa, with countries like Iraq, Syria, and Yemen largely affected. The elimination of 90 percent of USAID contracts has abruptly halted numerous vital aid programs, coinciding with the onset of Ramadan. An internal memo details the reasoning behind the cuts, which is said to address longstanding issues of institutional waste within the agency.
In Iraq, where over a million people have yet to return home post-conflict, USAID has provided crucial support since its invasion in 2003. The suspension of over $220 million in planned aid may exacerbate conditions for displaced individuals, raising concerns about escalating chaos as essential programs come to a standstill.
Syria, amidst its civil strife, was poised for a coordinated humanitarian response with changing leadership dynamics. However, following USAID’s funding suspension, aid organizations face dire circumstances, halting operations vital for the sustenance of over 16 million individuals in need of assistance.
In Gaza, the aid freeze poses significant risks amid ongoing conflict, jeopardizing humanitarian operations for more than 2 million residents who rely on those services. The situation worsens with USAID personnel dismissed and local organizations ceasing operations without adequate funding channels.
Jordan, a stable ally of the U.S., relies heavily on USAID support, receiving $1.2 billion in 2023 alone. Cuts to this funding are projected to induce job losses and economic stagnation, deeply affecting local businesses dependent on USAID programs.
Yemen faces one of the gravest humanitarian crises, with half the population in need of assistance. With a substantial portion of funding historically derived from the U.S., the cessation of USAID aid threatens to exacerbate an already dire situation as critical healthcare and food distribution programs are halted.
Overall, the sweeping reductions in foreign aid can lead to increased instability and humanitarian crises across the region, undermining previous efforts in promoting peace and development.
The Trump administration’s drastic cuts to foreign aid through USAID significantly affect vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa. Countries such as Iraq, Syria, Gaza, Jordan, and Yemen are experiencing severe disruptions in humanitarian assistance, which threatens both stability and the wellbeing of millions. The cessation of aid undermines important reconstruction efforts, leaving local populations vulnerable to renewed crises.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
