Beirut: In a startling discovery, boxes labeled with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) insignia have been found in Hezbollah’s secret weapon depots in Lebanon. The boxes, emblazoned with the message “With love from U.S. taxpayers to Hezbollah” alongside USAID and UNICEF logos, have prompted immediate diplomatic tensions.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the revelation has led to Israel initiating steps to sever ties with USAID. Asher Fredman, Executive Director of the National Security Strategy Institute in Israel, confirmed to local media that the cache included sniper rifles, anti-tank missiles, and various explosives. These findings have fueled suspicions about USAID’s financial aid being misdirected to terrorist factions in Lebanon, Yemen, and Gaza.
Fredman, who had previously conducted a humanitarian mission in Lebanon, recounted on his X account that he had personally encountered aid packages from UNICEF and USAID during his investigations.
Matthew Bryza, a former American diplomat, stressed the need for caution in interpreting the evidence. In his discussion with APA’s correspondent, Bryza highlighted the lack of conclusive proof, stating that photographs and statements from a former Israeli military officer alone are insufficient to confirm the presence of USAID-labeled boxes in Hezbollah’s arsenals. Bryza pointed out that aid from USAID and other NGOs often gets looted by terrorist groups, citing Hezbollah’s dual political and militant role as a possible explanation.
Israeli political commentator Elina Bardach-Yalov expressed concern about the misuse of humanitarian aid from Europe and the U.S., suggesting that funds intended for civilian aid are instead supporting terrorist activities. Bardach-Yalov urged greater awareness among American and European taxpayers about the potential diversion of their contributions.
The controversy echoes past allegations against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which has faced accusations of its aid being used to support Hamas attacks against Israel. These claims prompted several countries, including the United States and Japan, to halt financial assistance to UNRWA.
In light of these developments, USAID’s operations have come under scrutiny. Described by former U.S. President Donald Trump as wasteful and fraudulent, USAID has faced significant downsizing and calls for its closure. Trump’s stance reflects broader concerns about the agency’s efficacy and integrity in managing international aid.
Entrepreneur Elon Musk also criticized USAID, describing it as deeply flawed on his X platform, adding to the mounting pressure for reform within the organization.