US Lifts Pause on Food Aid, Allowing Shipments to Resume

US Lifts Pause on Food Aid, Allowing Shipments to Resume

Aid Suspension Ends

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has confirmed that the United States has lifted its pause on food donations. This decision ends a suspension that left 500,000 metric tons of food either at sea or awaiting shipment.

Resumption of Food Assistance

WFP announced that food assistance purchased from U.S. farmers under Title II funds can now resume. This includes the continuation of food purchases and deliveries under existing agreements with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

Reasons for the Suspension

The pause in food aid was initially triggered by a broader review of foreign aid initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump. This review aimed to align international aid with the “America First” policy, resulting in a 90-day halt on all foreign aid, including food assistance.

Confusion Over Waivers

Despite an emergency food assistance waiver issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the U.S. government instructed WFP to halt work on several USAID-funded grants. These grants were part of the Food for Peace Title II program, which provides approximately $2 billion in food aid annually.

Impact on Global Food Aid Programs

The suspension affected food aid programs in several vulnerable regions, including:

• Yemen
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Sudan
• South Sudan
• Central African Republic
• Haiti
• Mali

Challenges and Risks During the Pause

A report from USAID’s Office of Inspector General highlighted the consequences of the suspension, including:

• Over $489 million in food assistance stranded in ports, transit, or warehouses.
• Risks of spoilage, increased storage costs, and potential diversion of aid.
• Uncertainty for humanitarian organizations regarding financial risks and program continuity.

Conclusion

The lifting of the pause is expected to restore food aid distribution and mitigate further delays. However, the situation underscores the impact of sudden foreign aid policy changes and the need for clearer guidelines to prevent disruptions in critical humanitarian operations.

“US Lifts Pause on Food Aid, Allowing Shipments to Resume” “US Lifts Pause on Food Aid, Allowing Shipments to Resume”