The White House has sparked controversy by citing an unverified claim of a $50 million condom distribution programme in Gaza as justification for a sweeping freeze in US overseas assistance.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made the announcement at her debut press conference, stating that the expenditure was discovered by the new Department of Government Efficiency led by tech billionaire Elon Musk.
“That is a preposterous waste of taxpayers’ money,” Leavitt said, without providing further details or evidence to support the claim.
The alleged programme has raised eyebrows, given that condoms generally cost less than one dollar each in the United States and much less in bulk.
The Gaza Strip, with a population of over two million, has been heavily damaged in the 15-month war with Israel.
The aid freeze, ordered by President Trump, affects nearly all US overseas assistance, except for emergency food and military aid to Egypt and Israel.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in a memo that the US would be freezing aid disbursement, citing the need to ensure that aid conforms with the administration’s policies, which oppose abortion, transgender rights, and diversity programme.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the aid freeze, highlighting the US’s role as the world’s largest provider of development assistance.
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