Afghanistan Faces Severe Food Crisis Amid Aid Cuts and Taliban Restrictions
The World Food Programme confirms it can only assist half of Afghanistan’s 15 million food-insecure individuals due to aid cuts. Many are reduced to eating only “bread and tea.” Restrictions on women’s rights by the Taliban and global crises have further strained humanitarian efforts. The situation is critical as funding becomes increasingly scarce and difficult to sustain.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed that it is only able to provide food support to half of the 15 million Afghans facing acute hunger due to severe funding cuts and an upcoming suspension of U.S. foreign aid. WFP Country Director Hsiao-Wei Lee indicated that many affected individuals now rely on minimal sustenance, primarily consisting of “just bread and tea.” This situation has become increasingly dire since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, which triggered a freeze on international assistance and further restrictions on the country’s banking operations.
Despite ongoing humanitarian aid efforts from non-profit organizations aimed at addressing urgent needs, donor contributions have dwindled significantly in recent years due to Taliban-imposed restrictions on women’s rights, such as barring female NGO employees from work. Lee noted that approximately 6 million Afghans are receiving inadequate food, particularly during the harsh winter months.
As of 2024, Afghanistan’s humanitarian plan is only slightly over half funded, sparking concerns among aid officials that financial support may decrease further. The U.S. State Department recently issued a “stop-work” order on existing foreign aid, adding uncertainty regarding its impact on humanitarian operations in Afghanistan. The United States has traditionally been the largest donor, contributing over 40% of funding in 2024.
The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan worsened after the Taliban regained power in August 2021, leading to the suspension of international aid and a significant economic downturn. The banking sector has been adversely affected by restrictive measures, further complicating the situation for millions in need. Humanitarian organizations have attempted to fill the gaps in support amidst these challenges; however, ongoing global crises and Taliban regulations have made it increasingly difficult to provide adequate assistance.
The ongoing crisis in Afghanistan highlights an alarming humanitarian situation, with millions facing hunger due to severe aid cuts and the U.S. foreign assistance freeze. While efforts are being made to support vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, the reductions in aid pose serious threats to their well-being. The international community needs to address these pressing demands urgently and reconsider its support strategies to alleviate the suffering of Afghans.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
