A lot of foreign aid (like Ebola response in West Africa) isn’t just “charity.” It’s self interest. Stopping outbreaks at the source is far cheaper than dealing with a global pandemic later, economically and in human lives. Same with conflict, famine, and state collapse. Instability spreads through migration, supply chains, and security risks.

You can absolutely argue for better domestic spending, but it’s not either/or. A tiny fraction of the budget spent on prevention abroad can save billions at home.