Rubio’s foreign aid freeze applies to millions in funding for ‘condoms in Gaza’
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Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a bold decision over the weekend to freeze foreign aid, which included pulling millions of dollars-worth of U.S. funding for “condoms in Gaza,” according to a White House official. This move was part of a larger effort to review and realign U.S. foreign assistance programs to ensure they align with President Donald Trump’s executive orders, particularly those related to ending diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as funding NGOs that undermine national interests.
The White House official explained that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget would temporarily pause grants, loans, and federal assistance programs while they undergo review. The official emphasized that if the activity funded by these programs did not conflict with the President’s priorities, they would continue without issues. This decision mirrors previous actions taken by the Trump administration, such as halting grant money to the World Health Organization and freezing funding for condoms in Gaza.
The revelation that millions of taxpayer dollars were set to fund condoms in Gaza sparked outrage among officials. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described it as a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money” and emphasized the importance of being good stewards of tax dollars. Additionally, Leavitt highlighted that similar actions were taken to prevent funds from being sent to the WHO following Trump’s executive order.
The use of condoms in Gaza has been a contentious issue, with reports indicating that they have been used to create improvised explosive devices carried by balloons into Israel, causing significant damage. The International Planned Parenthood Federation and other NGOs have raised concerns about any blockade of aid shipments into Gaza, citing the need for sexual and reproductive healthcare services in the region.
In response to these concerns, Secretary of State Rubio paused all U.S. foreign assistance funded by the State Department and USAID for review. This decision was in line with Trump’s executive order directing a pause on most U.S. foreign assistance to realign with the America First agenda. Rubio emphasized the need to refocus on American national interests and ensure that every dollar spent benefits the American people.
Despite exemptions for emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt, at least 56 senior USAID officials were placed on leave pending an investigation into alleged efforts to circumvent Trump’s orders. The agency’s new acting administrator, Jason Gray, identified actions within USAID that appeared to go against the President’s executive orders and the will of the American people.
In conclusion, Secretary of State Rubio’s decision to freeze foreign aid, including funding for condoms in Gaza, reflects a larger effort to review and realign U.S. foreign assistance programs with the priorities of the Trump administration. The focus on American national interests and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely are central to this initiative.