Tarz Press: Afghanistan, once a major recipient of international aid over the past two decades, is now facing one of its most critical periods. Following the fall of the previous government and the Taliban’s takeover, U.S. financial assistance—previously the largest source of economic and humanitarian support for Afghanistan—has been drastically reduced. This shift has had widespread implications for the country’s humanitarian and social conditions, as well as its regional and global politics.
Significant Decline in U.S. Aid
According to the U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), U.S. financial aid to Afghanistan has dropped by 82% since the Taliban’s return to power. Annual assistance, which previously stood at $6.64 billion, is now only $1.21 billion.
This dramatic reduction has suspended or severely limited numerous humanitarian and developmental programs in Afghanistan. John Sopko, SIGAR’s Special Inspector General, has warned that a return to previous aid levels is highly unlikely and suggested that SIGAR’s mission may conclude by September 2025.
Shift in U.S. Policy
The reduction in aid signals a broader shift in U.S. policy toward Afghanistan. Unlike previous administrations, the current U.S. government has deprioritized Afghanistan in its foreign policy agenda.
With Donald Trump’s recent election victory, further cuts—or even a complete halt to aid—are increasingly likely. Trump has emphasized a “America First” policy, focusing on reducing foreign expenses and prioritizing domestic issues. His speeches and policies have suggested little to no interest in continuing aid to Afghanistan.
One notable indicator of diminished U.S. interest in Afghanistan is the removal of Tom West, the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, without a designated successor. West’s responsibilities have been divided between the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires and the Special Representative for Human Rights and Women in Afghanistan. This move underscores a clear message: Afghanistan is no longer a top priority for U.S. foreign policy.
Impact of Aid Cuts on Afghanistan
Afghanistan, already grappling with one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, remains heavily reliant on international aid. Over two-thirds of its population—approximately 28 million people—require urgent humanitarian assistance. The U.S. aid reduction has had devastating consequences:
1.Increased Poverty and Hunger
The United Nations reports that approximately 15 million Afghans are on the brink of starvation. Budget cuts have restricted access to basic food supplies, even for vulnerable groups like children and women.
2.Collapse of Healthcare and Education
Many healthcare facilities in Afghanistan depend on international funding. Reduced budgets have severely limited their ability to provide essential services. Similarly, the suspension of educational funding has led to the closure of thousands of schools, depriving millions of Afghan children of education.
3.Rising Migration
Deteriorating living conditions have forced many Afghans to flee their homes. Neighboring countries like Iran and Pakistan have witnessed a surge in Afghan migrants, and experts predict a new wave of migration toward Europe.
Calls for Responsibility
Critics argue that the U.S. bears significant responsibility for Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis. The Doha Agreement between the U.S. and the Taliban, which paved the way for the withdrawal of American forces and the collapse of the previous Afghan government, is considered a key factor in the current situation.
The U.S. cannot simply distance itself from Afghanistan and ignore its responsibilities. The ongoing crisis is a direct result of flawed past policies, and the international community—especially the U.S.—must be held accountable.
Proposed Solutions
To address Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis, the international community and the U.S. can consider the following actions:
•Develop a New Aid Strategy: The UN and European countries should play a more active role in funding and assisting Afghanistan.
•Pressure on the Taliban: Humanitarian aid should be contingent on adherence to human rights, particularly women’s and girls’ rights.
•Strengthen Regional Cooperation: Afghanistan’s neighboring countries must play a pivotal role in managing the humanitarian crisis and providing aid.
•Support NGOs: International NGOs can reduce reliance on government funding and continue delivering essential services.
Conclusion
The reduction in U.S. aid to Afghanistan has created a humanitarian catastrophe for millions and has implications that extend beyond its borders. Instability in Afghanistan poses a threat to regional and global security.
The international community must collaborate to sustain humanitarian aid and prevent further disaster. The U.S., as a key player in shaping Afghanistan’s current state, has a moral and humanitarian obligation that it cannot ignore.
By adopting a comprehensive strategy, applying pressure on the Taliban, and focusing on the needs of the Afghan people, the global community can mitigate the current crisis. Today’s decisions will shape the future of millions of Afghans and impact global security.
