Story perspectives

Clinic Closures Spark Maternal Mortality Crisis in Afghanistan

9/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Abdul lost his wife Shahnaz and their newborn due to the closure of a clinic in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, worsened by US aid cuts.
Over 400 clinics closed following funding cuts to USAID under the Trump administration.
Maternal mortality rates may rise by 50%, with newborn deaths increasing by a third this year.
Families face traumatic childbirth experiences without medical support.
Dr. Hamdard reported the hospital is overwhelmed, admitting over 300 patients with only 120 beds.
The Taliban denies misusing aid funds, stating NGOs manage distribution.

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Story summary

Abdul lost his wife Shahnaz and their newborn due to the closure of a clinic in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, worsened by US aid cuts.
Over 400 clinics closed following funding cuts to USAID under the Trump administration.
Maternal mortality rates may rise by 50%, with newborn deaths increasing by a third this year.
Families face traumatic childbirth experiences without medical support.
Dr. Hamdard reported the hospital is overwhelmed, admitting over 300 patients with only 120 beds.
The Taliban denies misusing aid funds, stating NGOs manage distribution.