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According to a Taliban government spokesperson, the strong earthquake that slammed eastern Afghanistan has left at least 800 people dead and 2,500 injured. Even before the death toll increased, the United Nations in Afghanistan expressed its “deep sadness” over the situation.
In a statement on X, the UN said its teams are already on the ground “delivering emergency assistance and lifesaving support.” “Our thoughts are with the affected communities,” the statement added.
In a statement posted on X, PM Narendra Modi expressed support and condolences to those affected by the earthquake. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the earthquake in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families in this difficult hour, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” he wrote. “India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected,” he added.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also expressed “support and solidarity to the Afghan people as they respond to it.” “India will extend assistance in this hour of need. Our condolences to the families of the victims. And our prayers for early recovery of the injured,” he added.
Worst affected area- According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake was located in Nangarhar province, 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad, and it struck around 11:47 p.m. local time. It decimated towns in Kunar province, which officials said was the worst-hit, at a shallow depth of 8 km. Hundreds of homes were burned or severely damaged in places including Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapadare.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has extended support to Afghanistan, pledging humanitarian and medical assistance in the wake of the recent tragedy.
“In these difficult moments and great tragedy, while expressing sincere condolences and solidarity with the great people of Afghanistan and the bereaved families, the Islamic Republic of Iran announces its full readiness to send relief, medical and humanitarian aid,” Araghchi said in comments as reported by Iran’s Tasnim news agency.
Source: IE
