In a heated session of the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs, America’s top diplomat faced intense scrutiny over the State Department’s ongoing financial support to Afghanistan, despite the absence of U.S. diplomatic presence in the country. Lawmakers expressed deep concern about the implications of sending billions to the Taliban while American citizens grapple with economic hardships at home.

During the meeting on December 11, 2024, committee members highlighted alarming statistics, including $14.9 million allocated for carpet weaving programs and $75 million intended to teach Afghan women farming skills. Critics questioned the effectiveness and oversight of these initiatives, especially given the Taliban's oppressive regime, which restricts women's rights and freedoms. One congressman pointedly remarked, “We are literally sending tens of millions of dollars to the Taliban,” emphasizing the absurdity of funding programs without any American oversight.

The diplomat acknowledged the lack of U.S. control over the embassy in Afghanistan, stating, “The embassy is not under our control.” This admission raised further questions about the accountability of funds being funneled into the country. Lawmakers were particularly frustrated by the absence of U.S. diplomats on the ground to verify the use of these funds, with one congressman exclaiming, “What are we doing giving them $1?”

The discussion also touched on the staggering $9 billion spent to resettle Afghan refugees in the U.S., averaging about $100,000 per person. This figure drew sharp criticism, with lawmakers questioning the rationale behind such expenditures when domestic needs remain pressing.

As the meeting concluded, the diplomat promised to address the concerns raised, but the overarching sentiment among committee members was clear: the current approach to funding Afghanistan requires urgent reevaluation. The implications of these discussions will likely resonate as Congress continues to deliberate on foreign aid and its alignment with American interests.