Humanitarian groups struggle amid aid cuts as Middle East crisis worsens

Humanitarian organizations are facing severe strain due to steep U.S. foreign aid cuts, struggling to respond to the escalating conflict in the Middle East that has displaced millions.

The dissolution of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) last year forced aid groups to lay off tens of thousands of staff and close critical programs.

The United Nations’ refugee agency, UNHCR, reports 3.2 million people displaced in Iran and 1 million in Lebanon since U.S. and Israeli strikes began Feb. 28. The agency, which reduced 30% of its staff last year, says it urgently needs $61 million to support 600,000 people in Lebanon over three months.

The World Food Program (WFP), which saw its funding cut by a third, warned nearly 45 million more people could face acute hunger if the conflict persists and oil prices remain high.

Aid experts criticize the prioritization of military spending over humanitarian needs; the Pentagon spent $11.3 billion in the first week of the war, nearly matching total global humanitarian aid in 2024.

The U.S. State Department said it is providing $40 million in additional emergency aid to Lebanon and working with the UN and partners, urging other countries to contribute. It also highlighted plans to establish 12 regional hubs for global disaster response.

Aid groups, including the International Rescue Committee, report that disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, rising food and fuel costs, and delayed deliveries of critical supplies are worsening the crisis.

Governments including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK have warned that a large-scale Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon could have devastating humanitarian consequences.