USAID Provided Millions in Funding to Extremist Groups, Designated Terrorist Organizations

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has come under scrutiny for funding groups tied to terrorism, according to a think tank’s report. A growing push to shut down the agency now raises questions about where taxpayer dollars really ended up.

Key Facts:

  • A study by the Middle East Forum found that USAID approved grants totaling $164 million for radical groups, with $122 million going to entities linked to designated terrorists.
  • More than $900,000 reportedly went to a Gaza-based group called Bayader Association for Environment and Development, which cooperates with Hamas.
  • USAID approved a $12.5 million grant in 2024 to the American Near East Refugee Agency, whose staffers allegedly posted anti-Israel sentiments on social media.
  • In 2015, $125,000 in USAID funds reached the Islamic Relief Agency (ISRA), designated as a global terrorist organization in 2004.
  • USAID is currently facing an investigation led by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administration.

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The Rest of The Story:

The Middle East Forum, a U.S. think tank, uncovered instances of government funds flowing to organizations with extremist ties.

These funds, intended for humanitarian and civic projects, allegedly ended up boosting charities and local partners that maintain close relations with terrorist groups.

Interim director Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced plans to place most USAID staff on leave.

He also explained in a letter that the agency could be reorganized or even abolished.

Bayader, the American Near East Refugee Agency, and several other recipients did not respond to inquiries about their alleged role in these deals.

Commentary:

Many are calling USAID a rogue agency that squandered taxpayer money and propped up organizations hostile to U.S. interests.

When government offices run unchecked, they risk turning into funnels for corruption rather than forces for global good.

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With evidence of funds reaching violent actors, it seems clear that USAID badly needed reform.

Taxpayers deserve to know where their money goes and what it really funds overseas.

President Trump’s decision to dismantle the agency appears justified by the mounting evidence of questionable spending.

There is little doubt more shocking details could emerge in the days ahead if deeper investigations continue.

The Bottom Line:

USAID’s funding of extremist-linked groups raises serious questions about the agency’s oversight.

Lawmakers and investigators have uncovered a troubling trail of taxpayer dollars.

The controversy now threatens the entire agency’s existence.

In the end, transparency and accountability must remain top priorities for any government program.

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