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Did the US Really Allocate $50M for Condoms in Gaza? Fact Check

January 30, 2025, 4:18 pm

The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt recently claimed that former President Donald Trump had blocked a $50 million aid program for condoms in Gaza. However, experts and official reports suggest no such funding ever existed.

White House’s Unverified Claim

During her first official briefing, Leavitt stated that Trump’s decision prevented a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money.” However, when pressed for evidence, the White House provided no proof. Instead, officials referred to State Department statements, which did not mention a $50 million condom fund.

Official Reports Contradict the Claim

A recent federal report confirmed that:

USAID provided no funds for condoms in the Middle East during 2021, 2022, or 2023.
The only contraceptive funding in the region was a small $46,000 supply of injectables and contraceptive pills sent to Jordan.
The total global spending on condoms by USAID in 2023 was $8.2 million, primarily for African countries—far from the claimed $50 million for Gaza.

Experts Dismiss the Allegation

Several experts and former officials rejected Leavitt’s statement, with a former Biden administration official calling it:

“A complete fabrication… a lie spread by the White House.”

Steve Fake, from the nonprofit Anera, which runs US-funded health programs in Gaza, confirmed that their initiatives do not include condom distribution.

Political Implications

The controversy arises as the White House reverses its decision to freeze federal aid. The freeze, initially defended by Leavitt, had raised concerns over healthcare funding for low-income Americans and potential cuts to major aid programs.

As fact-checks debunk the $50 million Gaza condoms claim, it highlights the growing scrutiny over political narratives regarding foreign aid and spending transparency.

Biden Administration to Remove Cuba from Terrorism List

January 15, 2025, 4:19 am

The Biden administration announced its decision to remove Cuba from the US state sponsor of terrorism list, a designation imposed by former President Donald Trump in January 2021. This move reflects a significant change in US-Cuba relations and aims to foster diplomatic progress.

White House Statement

In a press release titled “Certification of Rescission of Cuba’s Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism,” President Joe Biden confirmed the decision:

“I hereby certify…that the Government of Cuba has not provided any support for international terrorism during the preceding 6-month period; and the Government of Cuba has provided assurances that it will not support acts of international terrorism in the future.”

Trump Administration’s Original Designation

The Trump administration had reinstated Cuba’s designation, citing its alleged support for terrorism and granting safe harbor to terrorists. This included accusations of hosting members of Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) during peace talks in Havana and refusing to extradite leaders responsible for the 2019 Bogota police academy bombing.

Cuba’s Response

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez criticized the original designation as “hypocritical and cynical.” He stated on X:

“US political opportunism is recognized by those who are honestly concerned about the scourge of terrorism and its victims.”

Implications of the Decision

This policy reversal could pave the way for:

Improved diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba.
Eased economic sanctions and renewed cooperation.
A shift in regional dynamics, particularly concerning US influence in the Western Hemisphere.

Background on Cuba’s Inclusion

Cuba was first designated a state sponsor of terrorism in 1982. The Obama administration removed the designation in 2015 during efforts to normalize relations, only for it to be reinstated under Trump.

US Approves $500 Million Military Aid for Ukraine

January 10, 2025, 5:50 am

Berlin [Germany]: The Biden administration has approved an additional $500 million in military aid to Ukraine, marking one of the final moves under President Biden’s leadership. The announcement was made by US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin during his visit to Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where he also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Key Components of the Aid Package

The aid package includes:

Air defence missiles
Air-to-ground munitions
F-16 support equipment
Armoured bridging systems
Small arms and ammunition
Spare parts and communications equipment

The package is being delivered via the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which enables the rapid transfer of equipment directly from existing US military stockpiles.

Strategic Importance of the Package

Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, speaking at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group—a coalition of nearly 50 countries providing military support to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in February 2022—highlighted the global stakes involved.

“If Putin swallows Ukraine, his appetite will only grow. If autocrats conclude that democracies will surrender their principles, we will see more land grabs,” Austin stated.

The move is aimed at ensuring Ukraine’s defences remain robust and deterring further aggression by Russian forces.

US Aid to Ukraine: A Snapshot

The US has provided over $66 billion in military aid to Ukraine since the war began.
This is the 74th delivery of military equipment since August 2021.
Recent drawdown packages in December included an additional $1.25 billion and $1.22 billion in aid.

However, the remaining $4 billion in congressionally approved funds for Ukraine may fall under the purview of the incoming administration, raising questions about the continuity of military support.

A Call to Stand Against Autocracy

Austin warned of the dangers posed by unchecked aggression:

“If tyrants learn that aggression pays, we will only invite more chaos and war,” he added.

With this latest aid package, the Biden administration aims to leave a lasting impact on Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian advances while reinforcing global democratic principles.

US Plans $8 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

January 5, 2025, 6:23 am

The Biden administration has notified Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms package for Israel, reinforcing its ally during the prolonged Gaza conflict. The deal includes advanced munitions and defense systems, aligning with the US’s commitment to Israel’s security.

Key Details of the Arms Package

The arms package encompasses:

AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles to counter drones and airborne threats.
155mm artillery shells for ground operations.
Hellfire AGM-114 missiles for precision strikes.
Small-diameter bombs, warheads, and $6.75 billion in bombs and guidance systems.

While some munitions may be sourced from existing US stock, the majority will require several years for delivery.

Support Amid Ongoing Conflict

US officials have reiterated Israel’s right to self-defense in accordance with international law. The administration argues that the arms sale is vital for Israel’s defense against threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iran-backed militant groups.

Humanitarian and Political Concerns

The proposed deal has faced criticism from humanitarian organizations and international leaders due to the escalating Gaza conflict. Reports indicate over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, widespread displacement of the 2.3 million population, and accusations of war crimes, which Israel denies.

Despite these concerns, the US has consistently vetoed UN Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire and stood firmly by its ally.

Diplomatic Stalemate

Efforts to mediate peace in the 15-month Gaza conflict remain unsuccessful. The war, which began after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, has intensified global scrutiny of US-Israel relations.

Transition in US Leadership

As President Biden approaches the end of his term on January 20, his successor, Republican President-elect Donald Trump, is expected to maintain strong support for Israel

US to Send $1.25 Billion in Weapons to Ukraine Before Transition

December 28, 2024, 2:40 am

The United States plans to deliver a $1.25 billion military aid package to Ukraine, U.S. officials announced Friday. The package includes munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and HAWK air defense systems, along with Stinger missiles and 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds.

The aid, part of the presidential drawdown authority, enables the Pentagon to expedite the transfer of weapons directly from its stocks to Ukraine. Officials expect to announce the package officially on Monday.

Aid Against a Backdrop of Intensified Conflict

The aid comes as Ukraine faces relentless Russian attacks on its power infrastructure. Despite this, Ukrainian forces have successfully intercepted a substantial number of missiles and drones. The battle for control in regions like Kursk, where Russia has deployed North Korean troops, continues to escalate.

Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has provided over $64 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. The latest package will reduce the remaining funds in Pentagon stockpiles to approximately $4.35 billion.

Concerns About the Transition

With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office on January 20, there is uncertainty about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. Trump has expressed interest in negotiating a settlement between Ukraine and Russia, raising concerns among European allies about potential compromises.

Defense officials are working to disburse as much aid as possible before the transition. In addition to the drawdown authority, $1.2 billion remains in longer-term Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funding, which is expected to be allocated before year’s end.

Trump Urges Immediate Government Shutdown, Calls It a ‘Biden Problem’

December 21, 2024, 12:25 am

Donald Trump, president-elect of the United States, has stirred controversy by suggesting an immediate government shutdown while Joe Biden remains in office. Taking to Truth Social on Friday morning, Trump declared the situation a “Biden problem” that Republicans could assist in solving.

“If there is going to be a shutdown of government, let it begin now, under the Biden Administration, not after January 20th, under ‘TRUMP,'” he wrote.

Trump’s comments follow the House GOP’s rejection of a Republican bill to temporarily fund the government, sparking fears of an imminent shutdown.

Republicans’ Efforts to Prevent a Shutdown

On Wednesday, House Republicans dismissed a 1,500-page bill that proposed:

$100 billion in disaster relief funding.
Additional billions in farm aid.
Extended federal spending at current levels until March 14, 2025.

Instead, a condensed 116-page proposal, dubbed “Plan B,” was presented but failed to gain sufficient support.

Trump’s Stance on the Debt Ceiling

In a follow-up Truth Social post early Friday, Trump emphasized his opposition to the current debt ceiling, calling it “ridiculous.” He urged Congress to either eliminate it or extend it until 2029, asserting that the “pressure is on whoever is President.”

Democrats React to Shutdown Threat

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Republicans of jeopardizing the nation’s economy, stating, “Extreme MAGA Republicans are marching America to a painful government shutdown that will crash the economy and hurt working-class Americans.” Jeffries argued that Republicans prioritize tax cuts for wealthy donors over essential services like cancer research.

Implications of a Shutdown

A government shutdown would lead to:

Suspension of federal programs.
Furloughs for government employees.
Potential economic disruptions impacting everyday Americans.

With both parties remaining at odds, the looming shutdown raises concerns about bipartisan cooperation and the future of federal funding under the incoming administration.

Trump Calls for Swift Action on Mystery Drones Over New Jersey

December 14, 2024, 8:28 am

US President-elect Donald Trump criticized the Biden administration over mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey. He suggested that officials should shoot down the drone hovering over the state. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump urged swift action, expressing his frustration.

The drone sightings have alarmed New Jersey residents, and multiple grainy videos and images have circulated on social media. Additionally, the sightings raised concerns among lawmakers. However, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reassured the public, stating that the drone does not pose a “security threat.”

Trump’s Post on Truth Social

In his post on Friday, Trump questioned the government’s awareness of the drone, stating, “Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!! DJT.” He criticized the lack of action despite the numerous sightings.

FBI and DHS Response

The FBI and DHS responded with a joint statement on Thursday. They explained that many of the sightings were likely of regular aircraft. According to the statement, “It appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft, operating lawfully.” Furthermore, the agencies clarified that no malicious activity was occurring in New Jersey. Earlier this week, the Secret Service also denied involvement with the drones.

White House Response

On Friday, John Kirby, the White House national security communications adviser, spoke to Fox News. He stated that the government didn’t have enough information to take action. “We’re gonna share as much as we can. I understand it’s frustrating for folks, it’s frustrating for us,” Kirby explained.

Lawmakers Express Growing Concern

Drone sightings were also reported in New York and Maryland, which only added to the concerns. Senator Richard Blumenthal, who chairs the Senate Homeland Security Committee’s investigations panel, requested a briefing from the FAA before Congress breaks for the holidays.

Local Lawmakers in New Jersey Voice Alarm

Meanwhile, New Jersey Senator Andy Kim voiced his frustration. He and local police had gone out searching for drones overnight, and they saw five to seven lights at a time, which did not match aircraft on flight tracking apps. Kim questioned how the government had failed to track the drones and determine their origin, raising concerns about the government’s ability to detect and counter drones.

Homeland Security Secretary briefed last week on new technology they were deploying but we need details on what those efforts have yielded and if more resources are needed. If they haven’t fully identified the devices yet we still should know what is being done. 9/11

— Andy Kim (@AndyKimNJ) December 13, 2024

Governor Murphy Appeals to Biden

In response, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy appealed to President Biden, requesting that federal agencies work together to investigate the drone sightings. He sent a letter urging the agencies to collaborate in uncovering the truth behind the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) sightings.

I wrote to @POTUS to express my concerns about reports of unmanned aircraft systems in and around NJ airspace.

Since existing laws limit the ability of state and local law enforcement to counter UAS, more federal resources are needed to understand what is behind this activity. pic.twitter.com/mkeUeW7ury

— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) December 13, 2024

Governor Hochul’s Statement on Drones

Similarly, New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the issue. She confirmed that residents in New York had reported seeing drones this week. However, she reassured the public, saying, “At this time, there’s no evidence that these drones pose a public safety or national security threat.” Moreover, she stated that New York is coordinating with the FBI and DHS to investigate the situation further.

Biden Administration Unveils First Comprehensive Plan To Combat Islamophobia In US

December 13, 2024, 5:45 pm

The White House has introduced its first comprehensive strategy to tackle Islamophobia, presenting over 100 measures aimed at addressing hate, violence, bias, and discrimination against Muslims and Arab Americans. This announcement comes five weeks before President Joe Biden’s term concludes, leaving its implementation largely dependent on the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

The initiative follows the administration’s May 2023 strategy to combat antisemitism amid rising hate crimes against Jewish communities. Officials cited a significant increase in threats against Muslim and Arab communities, including the October 2023 killing of Wadee Alfayoumi, a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy fatally stabbed in Illinois.

Core Priorities of the Strategy

The strategy outlines four key objectives:

Raising Awareness: Promoting understanding of anti-Muslim hate and celebrating the contributions of Muslims and Arabs to the US.
Enhancing Safety: Strengthening security for Muslim and Arab communities.
Curbing Discrimination: Protecting religious practices and addressing systemic bias.
Building Solidarity: Encouraging cross-community unity to counter hate.

These priorities align with the administration’s antisemitism strategy, emphasizing safety and fostering collaboration across diverse groups. The plan also stresses improved data collection, educational initiatives, and clear communication from federal agencies to prevent discrimination in federally funded programs.

It further calls for better reporting mechanisms for hate crimes and cooperation with local, state, and international entities to promote justice and equality.

Reactions to the Plan

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) expressed mixed feelings about the initiative, describing it as “too little, too late.” While acknowledging some positive aspects, CAIR criticized the plan for its delayed release and lack of action on systemic issues, such as the federal watchlist and US involvement in global conflicts.

The Biden administration faced criticism from pro-Palestinian groups during the 2024 campaign for its unwavering support of Israel during the Gaza conflict. Activists frequently disrupted campaign events, accusing the administration of fueling anti-Muslim sentiment.

President-elect Trump’s policies also draw concern. While some Arab-American voters supported him in the 2024 election, apprehensions linger over potential cabinet appointments and policy decisions, particularly considering his previous travel bans targeting Muslim-majority countries.

The new strategy marks a significant step toward addressing Islamophobia, but its success will hinge on bipartisan commitment and sustained efforts under the next administration.

Biden Approves $1.17 Billion Helicopter Equipment Sale To India

December 4, 2024, 12:01 am

In a significant boost to defense ties between the United States and India, the Biden administration has approved the sale of MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopter Equipment and related systems at an estimated cost of $1.17 billion. The announcement was made on Monday, with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notifying Congress of the proposed deal.

Strengthening India’s Defense Capabilities

The deal aims to enhance India’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, enabling it to deter both current and future threats. According to the notification, the sale includes:

30 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS)
Advanced data transfer systems
External fuel tanks
AN/AAS 44C(V) Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) systems
Operator machine interface assistants
Spare containers and support equipment

Additionally, the agreement involves facilities design, construction, and support, as well as munitions integration and testing.

A Key Moment in US-India Defense Relations

The timing of the deal is noteworthy, as it comes just weeks before President Joe Biden completes his four-year term. The move reflects the growing defense cooperation between the two nations, with Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems serving as the principal contractor.

India’s Strategic Advantage

The proposed equipment sale will bolster India’s naval capabilities, particularly in anti-submarine warfare, a critical area in the Indo-Pacific region. This aligns with India’s efforts to modernize its military and enhance its strategic position globally.

Looking Ahead

President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office on January 20, 2025, and it remains to be seen how the new administration will shape defense ties with India. However, this deal underscores the strong foundation of the US-India defense partnership.

Biden Readies $725 Million Arms Boost For Ukraine As War Efforts Intensify

November 28, 2024, 2:17 pm

Biden administration is preparing an $725 million weapons package for Ukraine to bolster its defense against Russia, US officials confirmed on Wednesday. The package, set to be finalized before President Biden leaves office in January, aims to provide a variety of anti-tank weapons to aid Ukraine’s efforts to counter Russian advancements.

The aid will include a mix of land mines, drones, Stinger missiles, and ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), alongside a controversial inclusion of cluster munitions, which are typically used in Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) fired from HIMARS launchers. The formal notification of the package could be made to Congress by Monday, with the final contents and size subject to change.

This move represents a significant increase compared to Biden’s recent use of Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), a mechanism that allows the US to quickly provide weapons from its stockpiles. While recent PDA packages have ranged between $125 million to $250 million, the $725 million package marks a steep escalation as Biden aims to provide additional support to Ukraine amid Russia’s growing territorial gains.

The inclusion of land mines in the package is particularly notable, given the long-standing international controversy surrounding their use due to their potential harm to civilians. Despite over 160 countries banning landmines under a global treaty, Ukraine has requested them since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, as Russian forces have used them on the front lines. The landmines being supplied to Ukraine are “non-persistent,” meaning they will become non-lethal after a short period, reducing the risk to civilians compared to older landmine designs.

Ukraine is currently facing significant setbacks, with Russian forces making rapid territorial gains, capturing an area half the size of London in just the past month. The new weapons package is expected to bolster Ukraine’s efforts to regain lost ground and defend its territory.

Trump Compares Israel-Hamas Conflict To Kids Fighting, Criticizes Biden Administration

October 2, 2024, 1:46 pm

Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday likened the Israel-Hamas conflict to two children fighting in a schoolyard, arguing that recent incidents, including Tuesday’s Iranian missile attack on Israel, should not have occurred. Trump emphasized that the US must remain heavily involved in the Middle East, stating, “This has really been bad, but they have to finish that process. Sometimes you have to just let it go a little bit; we’ll see what happens.”

He described the ongoing violence as a “horrible, horrible war,” expressing concern over the situation’s escalation and the lives affected. Referring to the recent barrage of nearly 200 missiles from Iran, which were mostly intercepted by Israeli defenses with US support, Trump criticized President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their handling of the situation. He claimed that the US is “very close to global catastrophe,” stating, “We have a non-existent president and a non-existent vice president who should be in charge, but nobody knows what’s going on.”

Trump asserted that during his presidency, there was peace in the Middle East, with Iran “fully contained” and desperate for negotiations. He accused the current administration of providing funds to Iran, which he claims has led to an increase in global terrorism. “Under President Trump, we had no war in the Middle East, no war in Europe, and harmony in Asia,” he stated, attributing the current instability to the incompetence of the current leadership.

Trump Rally Shooting: Russia Blames Biden Administration for Assassination Attempt

July 14, 2024, 4:49 pm

Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an apparent assassination attempt by a gunman at a campaign rally on July 13. The incident occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania, and will likely raise concerns about stability ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

The Assassination Attempt

The FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Crooks was named by the FBI as the subject involved in the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Trump’s Response and Injuries

Trump, the 78-year-old former president, was rushed off stage with blood smeared across his face after the shooting. He later said, “I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.” Despite the chaos, Trump raised a defiant fist to the crowd as he was escorted to safety.

Casualties and Injuries

The gunman and a bystander were killed in the incident, and two spectators were critically injured.

International Reaction

Russia blamed the Biden administration for creating an atmosphere that led to the assassination attempt.

US Claims That Israel Uses Weapons Violating International Humanitarian Law

May 11, 2024, 11:14 am

The Biden administration stated on Friday that it is “reasonable to assess” that Israel’s use of American weaponry in Gaza violates international humanitarian law and is “inconsistent,” meaning that Israel’s actions are clearly wrong by international standards.

While acknowledging continuing investigations into potential violations, a report written by the State Department concedes that they do not “have complete information to verify” the use of US weapons in alleged violations of international humanitarian law.

The report notes that it is challenging to evaluate or draw firm conclusions about specific incidents due to the nature of the conflict in Gaza, which involves Hamas’ attempt to conceal itself behind infrastructure and civilian populations in order to expose them to Israeli military action, as well as the dearth of USG personnel stationed there.

“However, it is reasonable to conclude that, since October 7, Israeli security forces have used defence articles covered by NSM-20 in situations that are inconsistent with their IHL obligations or with accepted best practices for mitigating civilian harm, given Israel’s substantial reliance on defence articles manufactured in the United States.”

The research did not come to the conclusion that Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza in violation of US statutes. It covers the time from the start of hostilities with Hamas on October 7 until late April.

“At this time, we do not believe that the Israeli government is preventing or otherwise restricting the movement or delivery of humanitarian aid from the United States,” the report stated.

The report is very critical of the consequences of Israel’s military activities, even if it finds no evidence of Israel’s breach of the conditions of the memorandum. This criticism is made at a time when tensions between the United States and Israel are already high due to President Joe Biden’s threat to halt military deliveries should Israel launch a major offensive in Rafah. Generally speaking, the US government has abstained from giving Israel military assistance.

Then then, Biden said in a CNN interview that “I’m not supplying the weapons that have been used historically to deal with Rafah, to deal with the cities – that deal with that problem” if the fighters enter Rafah, even if they haven’t entered yet.

President Biden signed a national security memorandum in February in response to demands from Democratic lawmakers, and on Friday afternoon, the important report was declassified and transmitted to Capitol Hill.

This is the first official US government assessment of Israel’s actions throughout the seven-month war in Gaza with Hamas, which began with the terror group’s devastating strike on October 7 that left over 34,000 people dead and much damage to the coastal area.