U.S. Aid Cuts Strain Humanitarian Efforts in Middle East

0:00On March 25th, humanitarian groups worldwide are under huge pressure from deep U.S. cuts to foreign aid, just as they scramble to help millions. Displaced by the escalating war in the Middle East, the U.S. dissolved its agency for international development last year, leading to tens of thousands of job losses and close programs. Since U.S. and Israeli strikes hit Iran on February 28th, the United Nations Refugee Agency reports 3.2 million people displaced inside Iran and 1 million in Lebanon. Earlier this week, that same refugee agency, which cut 30 percent of its staff due to the funding drop, made an urgent call for 61 million. Dollars to aid 600,000 people in Lebanon over the next three months. Operations across Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan remain dramatically short on cash. Meanwhile, the World Food Program, down a third in funding, warns that 45 million more people could face severe hunger if the fighting drags.

1:00Into mid-year, an oil stays above $100 a barrel. The cuts have hit the vulnerable hardest, with reports of children starving, young girls pushed into early marriages and HIV patients unable to get. Medicine Aid workers point out the stark contrast as the war's first week alone cost $11.3 billion while global humanitarian appeals are. Only one-third funded. The U.S. State Department says it's stepping up with over $40 million in new emergency aid for Lebanon and $2 billion to a United. Nations fund plus 12 new regional hubs to handle crises. Still, groups like the International Rescue Committee say, shipping disruptions in the straight of Hormuz are delaying vital supplies, spiking food, costs, and forcing tough choices in places like Sudan. As needs skyrocket from the conflict's fallout, pressure builds on governments to release congressional-approved funds and boost support before. Catastrophe spreads further. Stay informed with Global News, AI-powered updates.

2:03I'm Corey, with the story.