Statement by USAID Spokesperson Ben Edwards on Syria Humanitarian Operations

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

The U.S. Agency for International Development has halted several humanitarian aid activities in Turkey based on information provided by USAID’s Office of Inspector General about fraud in humanitarian aid for Syrians. USAID has also suspended individuals and vendors from receiving USAID funding.

USAID places the highest priority on ensuring that taxpayer funds are used wisely, effectively and for their intended purpose. We have a zero tolerance policy for fraud and abuse of American taxpayer resources and will take every measure at our disposal to recover misspent funds.

USAID is working to reduce the impact of the suspension on Syrians in need of humanitarian aid by identifying alternative options for continuing the affected programs. USAID is continuing to reach people in need, and we remain committed helping Syrians during this humanitarian crisis.