Deploy DART to Tigray: Address Unequal Aid & Foster Peace

I hope this letter finds you well. As a concerned citizen, I write to express my deep concern about the unequal distribution of disaster relief aid to the people of Tigray, Ethiopia. The recent conflict in the region has resulted in a dire need for basic necessities such as food, water, and medical supplies. Despite the signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) three months ago, which promised unrestricted humanitarian access, the aid being sent remains alarmingly unequal. According to the United Nations, the latest data demonstrates that last week, food assistance was provided to more than 138,000 individuals in the Afar region and over 149,000 individuals in the Amhara region. In stark contrast, the number of people reached in Tigray was limited to a mere 2,300.  Furthermore, it is deeply concerning to note that while Tigray remains at the receiving end of aid distribution from rounds 2 and 3, neighboring regions have progressed to the fifth round of assistance. This disparity is not only unacceptable, but it constitutes a gross injustice. Given the relative cessation of hostilities, it is imperative that the United States, the United Nations, and other relevant actors exercise their influence to encourage the Ethiopian government to fulfill its commitment to ending the use of famine as a weapon of war in Tigray. Timely and effective measures are needed to address the critical needs of the Tigrayan people and lay the foundation for a sustained recovery. It is in this context that President Biden's deployment of the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) takes on a significant and crucial role. As a highly specialized unit within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), DART is equipped with the expertise and resources necessary to respond rapidly and effectively to humanitarian emergencies. The dispatch of DART to Tigray will provide invaluable support in addressing the critical needs of the affected population, including the provision of vital supplies such as food, water, and medical aid. Additionally, DART's presence on the ground will ensure that the aid distribution process is transparent, efficient, and equitable, thereby contributing to the restoration of stability and the long-term recovery of the region. I respectfully request your attention to the measures outlined above and to support the calling on President Biden to deploy DART to Tigray, which is imperative for fostering peace in Ethiopia and addressing the persistent crisis in Tigray. The Tigrayan people are deserving of our unwavering support and solidarity. Through collective effort, we have the potential to bring forth a brighter future for all involved.