From Aid to Advantage

March 27, 2025 - Across global conflict zones, humanitarian workers are risking their lives to provide food, medical care, and critical supplies. In the Middle East, Northern Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond, escalating violence has made it increasingly difficult for aid organizations to safely operate putting vulnerable civilians at risk and threatening long-term regional stability. In recent weeks, reports from aid organizations like the World Food Programme warn of growing shortages in the Middle East that could leave tens of thousands without essential food in a matter of weeks. Tragically, even humanitarian convoys have come under fire, and multiple aid workers working under respected, internationally recognized groups such as the World Central Kitchen have been killed or gone missing. This is not about assigning blame or taking sides in a complex conflict. Rather, this is about reaffirming a universal principle: humanitarian workers must be protected, and life-saving aid for ...

March 20, 2025 - This week, Hamas ended a temporary ceasefire with a barrage of rocket attacks on Israeli territory, an act of aggression that shattered a fragile calm. In response, Israel launched military operations targeting Hamas strongholds, including in Beit Lahia and Rafah. Civilian casualties have unfortunately risen, as is often the case when terrorist groups embed themselves within population centers, using civilians as shields. The loss of innocent lives is tragic, and it underscores the complexity of ensuring peace while holding violent actors accountable. Terrorism Thrives Where Opportunity Dies This conflict is a stark reminder of a deeper, global truth: where poverty and despair take root, extremism often follows. The situation in Gaza is not just a humanitarian concern, it’s a national security issue. Poverty, unemployment, and a lack of basic services create the perfect storm for radical groups like Hamas to recruit, entrench themselves, and destabilize regions. Long-...

  March 14, 2025 - As the U.S. government looks to optimize its budget and focus on priorities, the proposed adjustments to the 2025 International Affairs Budget, which includes critical programs like the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP), present an important opportunity to rethink how global investments can align with American interests. While these adjustments reflect a desire for fiscal responsibility, it’s essential to consider how strategic foreign aid can strengthen both American economic growth and national security. Strategic Investment for Stability and Security In Bangladesh, the world’s largest refugee settlement for Rohingya refugees is facing a dire situation, with food rations slashed and aid dwindling. With cuts to international aid, the humanitarian conditions worsen, pushing vulnerable populations into even more desperate circumstances. While the situation is heartbreaking, it also highlights the broader reality: when global instability arises, ...

March 6, 2025 — As tensions escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict, President Trump has taken a firm stance, issuing a final warning to Hamas to release all remaining hostages or face severe consequences. His message reinforces America’s longstanding commitment to protecting innocent lives and combating terrorist organizations, while also highlighting the broader challenges posed by protracted conflicts. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. With aid deliveries halted pending a ceasefire agreement, international organizations like the United Nations have raised concerns about severe food shortages and the rapid depletion of critical medical and survival supplies. Though Hamas bears responsibility for initiating violence, the humanitarian cost, as in most cases where extremist organizations take control and power, is being paid by civilians. The Strategic Value of Humanitarian Aid This crisis serves as a powerful example of why U.S. leadership in global aid matters ...