The US has halted new funding for all foreign aid programs.
The US State Department has ordered the suspension of new funding for almost all aid programs worldwide.
According to US media, the order issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio exempts emergency food programs and military aid to Egypt, in addition to Israel. This US move has created risks for billions of dollars in health, education, job training, anti-corruption and security-related projects funded by US aid around the world.
The US issues the most aid funds globally and during 2023 these funds were $ 60 billion, which is one percent of the US budget. The US State Department cited an executive order. President Donald Trump signed the executive order a few days ago.
The US Secretary of State’s order also does not exempt life-saving health programs, clinics and immunization programs. Among the projects for which funding has been frozen is the internationally acclaimed AIDS program, which will now only be able to continue for another three months. The program, launched under former President George W. Bush, is credited with saving 25 million lives, including 5.5 million children.
