U.S. Commits $1.8 Billion in Humanitarian Aid with Focus on Foreign Policy Interests
The U.S. pledged $1.8 billion in humanitarian aid through the UN, aligned with its foreign policy interests and on top of $2 billion announced previously. Jeremy Lewin emphasized aid goes to 'hyper-prioritized' countries. The U.S. remains the largest donor to OCHA, but its contributions target select nations.
The U.S. Department of State has announced a new commitment of $1.8 billion in humanitarian aid, which will be distributed through the United Nations. This pledge is in addition to $2 billion announced last December, under a mechanism aimed at ensuring more efficient aid delivery and increased accountability.
Jeremy Lewin, acting undersecretary for foreign assistance, stated that the aid is directed at 'hyper-prioritized' countries, chosen based on the U.S.'s foreign policy interests. While countries like Venezuela and Lebanon are included, others that do not align with U.S. interests are not prioritized, Lewin noted.
OCHA chief Tom Fletcher reiterated the UN's commitment to neutrality while reforming its humanitarian approach amidst declining funding. Meanwhile, the U.S. Ambassador to the UN emphasized ongoing efforts to settle outstanding financial obligations to various U.N. budgets.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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