Iran International::

President Donald Trump’s decision to pause all US foreign aid has left human rights activists concerned about its impact on Iran-related programs, with some warning the order could help Tehran further restrict its people’s access to information.

Several Iranian human rights organizations, internet freedom programs and activists engaged in media and civil society work have received notices that their funds will be suspended for three months, Iran International has learned.

Trump signed an executive order on January 20, his first day in office, suspending foreign development assistance for 90 days to allow for a review of its efficiency and alignment with his America First policy stance.

Following the move, the State Department has halted most ongoing foreign aid programs and paused the initiation of new assistance, according to an internal memo distributed to officials and US embassies abroad.

Official government figures show Washington is the world's biggest donor of international aid, spending $39 billion in the 2024 fiscal year, out of which $65 million was allocated to funding State Department-administered Near East Regional Democracy (NERD).

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