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The Washington Post reports that some local charities aiding internally displaced people (IDPs) in northwest Pakistan may be affiliated with banned militant groups or groups close to them, such as the Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation. They assist with meals and medical services. The Post quotes a Falah-e-Insaniat official as saying they might provide schooling if the fighting lasts, since many IDPs don’t know when they may be able to return to their homes.

Almost 1.8 million people have been forced from their homes since the beginning of May 2009, joining the more than 550,000 who had fled since August 2008. The exodus has overwhelmed government and international agencies’ efforts to assist them. Many displaced people languish in camps with rudimentary services in day-time temperatures in the low 40s°C.

Background: CNN, NPR/AP, Reuters