Kunar, Nangarhar Quake: Sympathy, Aid Pours In

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations, the European Union, Japan and Turkey have expressed deep sorrow over the deadly earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on Sunday night and have sent teams to provide urgent assistance to the affected communities.

The earthquake struck around midnight, registering a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The Ministry of Interior Affairs reported that the quake in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces claimed 622 lives and injured 1,555 people, while destroying a large number of homes.

The Ministry of Public Health said 80 people were also injured in Laghman province.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres wrote on X:“I stand in full solidarity with the people of Afghanistan after the devastating earthquake that struck the country today. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”

He added that the UN team in Afghanistan has been mobilized and will spare no effort to assist those in need.

The UN in Afghanistan also stated on X:“A devastating earthquake has shaken eastern Afghanistan, killing hundreds and injuring many more. Our teams are on the ground providing urgent aid and life-saving support.”

The European Union in Afghanistan wrote on X:“We extend our heartfelt condolences to all affected by the recent earthquake in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. Our humanitarian partners are actively on the ground, providing critical aid. We stand in full solidarity with Afghans.”

Takayoshi Kurumaya, Japan's ambassador to Kabul, expressed sadness over the casualties and extended his condolences to the victims.

The Turkish Embassy in Kabul posted on X:“We received with great sorrow the news that many people lost their lives in last night's earthquake. We pray to Almighty God for mercy on the deceased and a swift recovery for the injured, and we extend our condolences to the brotherly people of Afghanistan. Turkey is closely monitoring the situation.”

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