The Trump administration’s recent cuts to USAID funding will severely impact vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa, with $60 billion slashed and 90% of contracts canceled. Aid programs in Iraq, Gaza, Syria, Yemen, and Jordan are facing halts, disrupting critical support essential for millions. These changes threaten increased humanitarian crises and instability in the region.
The recent decision by the Trump administration to drastically cut USAID funding has profound implications for vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa. With a slashing of $60 billion in aid and the cancellation of 90% of contracts, vital assistance in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Jordan, and Gaza has halted. This funding freeze coincided with the onset of Ramadan, heightening humanitarian concerns in affected regions.
USAID’s internal memo indicated the need to eliminate waste and align foreign assistance with American interests. However, supporters argue that the agency’s efforts, representing less than 1% of the federal budget, serve as a crucial soft power mechanism for the U.S. The administration has initiated a 90-day review of all foreign assistance, which has raised alarms about the potential fallout in numerous countries.
Countries such as Iraq, where over a million people are displaced post-conflict, relied heavily on USAID for basic needs like food, clean water, and healthcare. In 2023, USAID allocated over $220 million to Iraq, but these essential projects are now halted, leaving many vulnerable individuals without support.
In Syria, the cessation of aid is particularly troubling as over 16 million individuals require humanitarian assistance. USAID previously funded approximately 25% of this support, and the recent suspension of contracts threatens both immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery initiatives.
The situation is dire in Gaza, where the population is largely dependent on humanitarian aid due to ongoing conflict. Cuts to USAID, which had committed billions for recovery and development, jeopardize both local employment and essential supplies, raising concerns about the stability of recent ceasefires.
Jordan, a key U.S. ally, faces economic repercussions from the funding cuts. USAID’s support, amounting to $1.2 billion in 2023, accounts for over 2% of Jordan’s GDP. The freeze has affected numerous businesses, leading to layoffs and project cancellations.
Similarly, in Yemen, one of the worst ongoing humanitarian crises, the reduction in USAID funding poses a significant threat as half the population depends on assistance. The early end to essential healthcare, sanitation, and food programs has triggered concerns about exacerbating already critical conditions.
In summary, the extensive reduction in USAID funding disrupts crucial aid programs across several countries in the MENA region. This decision may lead to increased instability and humanitarian crises, undermining years of development efforts and straining geopolitical relations. Without careful reconsideration and reinstatement of support, millions will suffer severe consequences in the immediate future.
The substantial cuts to USAID funding by the Trump administration have serious consequences for humanitarian aid across the Middle East and North Africa. Essential support systems in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Gaza, Jordan, and Yemen are at risk, endangering millions of vulnerable individuals. This withdrawal of assistance may lead to increased suffering, economic instability, and potential threats to regional security, highlighting the importance of sustained U.S. engagement and funding to address these critical needs.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
