The ACAPS research organization has raised concerns over the US suspension and reduction of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, warning that such actions could have severe consequences for vulnerable Afghans.

The organization stated that any reduction in humanitarian funding or the suspension of aid operations would negatively impact the Afghan population, especially those in urgent need of assistance.

According to the report, more than one-third of Afghanistan’s population is expected to face severe food insecurity by March 2025.

A section of the ACAPS report states: “The US is a major humanitarian aid donor; in 2024, according to OCHA’s financial tracking system, US funds made up 43.9% of all reported humanitarian funding in Afghanistan (OCHA accessed 30/01/2025). In 2025, the US was expected to provide at least USD 234 million in humanitarian financing to Afghanistan.”

Amid worsening economic conditions, Shirin Agha, the sole breadwinner for his family, expressed frustration over job shortages and rising financial struggles.

"The economic problems are overwhelming. I come here to work, but I can’t make enough to cover household expenses. Some days I earn something, other days I don’t," he told TOLOnews.

Similarly, Salim, another Kabul resident, urged the Islamic Emirate to facilitate job creation.
"Projects should be launched, factories should be reopened, and the government should take action to create employment opportunities," he said.

At the same time, US President Donald Trump has directly called for the shutdown of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The potential closure of one of the largest humanitarian aid organizations for impoverished nations, including Afghanistan, has sparked widespread concern.

Mir Shakir Yaqoubi, an economic analyst, warned that USAID's suspension or closure could cripple essential services in Afghanistan.

"USAID played a crucial role in providing education, healthcare, and development assistance, as well as supporting infrastructure projects. If its operations in Afghanistan are suspended or stopped, healthcare and education services could be completely cut off," Yaqoubi said.

The Islamic Emirate’s Ministry of Economy acknowledged that the suspension of US funding to international humanitarian organizations in Afghanistan has already had negative financial consequences.

Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy, stated: "The suspension of US aid has financially impacted some UN organizations involved in humanitarian efforts. Humanitarian assistance should not be used as a political tool."

Additionally, the ACAPS report noted that it remains unclear how the US withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) will affect Afghanistan’s healthcare crisis. However, the country’s healthcare system continues to deteriorate amid ongoing socioeconomic challenges.