The Trump administration’s slashing of USAID funding by $60 billion has halted vital aid programs across the Middle East and North Africa, threatening millions impacted by conflict and humanitarian crises. Countries including Iraq, Syria, and Yemen face significant setbacks as contracts are canceled, leading to job losses and a risk of increased suffering among the most vulnerable population.
The Trump administration’s decision to drastically cut USAID funding by $60 billion, eliminating 90 percent of foreign aid contracts, has significantly impacted vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa. Countries such as Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Jordan are feeling the effects of halted lifesaving programs, economic development projects, and job losses amid ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Many projects designed to feed, provide healthcare, and support local economies in regions affected by war have been suspended, coinciding with the commencement of Ramadan. An internal memo revealed that these cuts aim to reduce what officials term significant waste within the agency, asserting a need for a more fiscally responsible approach.
Supporters of USAID argue that the agency fulfills a crucial role in humanitarian aid and serves as a vital tool of soft power for the United States. The initial crisis began on January 20 when President Trump instituted a temporary freeze on foreign assistance for a comprehensive review aimed at organizing aid aligned with US interests.
As a result, around 5,800 out of 6,200 multi-year contracts worth an estimated $54 billion were canceled. The action has laid off over 6,000 of USAID’s team and put immense pressure on international NGOs and programs supplying essential assistance. Control of the agency has shifted to the State Department, which is currently engaged in legal proceedings concerning these significant cuts.
In Iraq, USAID’s contributions, totaling over $220 million in 2023, were critical in rebuilding efforts post-Daesh, aiding in vital sectors such as clean water, healthcare, and women’s support services. An agency officer expressed profound concern about the ramifications for displaced populations lacking support.
Syria’s humanitarian response, which saw potential improvement following Assad’s fall, has also suffered. USAID was integral to providing a substantial percentage of humanitarian relief, but recent cuts have left organizations struggling and unable to deliver essential services, thus putting lives at risk.
In Gaza, the freeze on USAID assistance threatens not only humanitarian efforts but also South African stability, with millions depending on aid during an ongoing conflict. Past and planned funding was disrupted, leading to layoffs among employees vital for assistance delivery.
Jordan, as a significant recipient of USAID funding, has seen its economy affected, with reports indicating rising job losses due to halted projects tied to USAID support. Key development projects faced uncertainty, underscoring the agency’s importance in bolstering local economies.
Finally, in Yemen, which is grappling with a humanitarian catastrophe, the cuts in USAID funding raise alarms about the prolonged emergency affecting millions who desperately need assistance. Aid workers are now reporting that critical projects aimed at providing food, healthcare, and sanitation have ceased operations, exacerbating the crisis as Ramadan begins.
The sweeping cuts to USAID under the Trump administration’s directive have resulted in halted critical aid in the Middle East and North Africa, significantly worsening humanitarian crises. Countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Yemen are facing dire consequences as vital services are discontinued. The shift in foreign assistance strategy underscores a dire need for vigilance to prevent further destabilization in these regions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
