KABUL (Pajhwok): Japan, Iran, Pakistan, the United Nations, the European Union and several other countries and organizations have expressed sorrow over Sunday night's devastating earthquake in northern Afghanistan and announced their readiness to support those affected.

The earthquake, measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale, struck around 1:00 a.m. local time, with its epicenter in the Kholm district of Balkh province. Tremors were also felt in Kabul, Baghlan, Samangan, Sar-i-Pul and Kunduz provinces.

According to local sources, at least 23 people lost their lives and more than 670 others were injured in Balkh and Samangan provinces. Hundreds of residential houses were either partially or completely destroyed.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement that, together with other humanitarian organizations, it has deployed assessment and relief teams to the affected areas and begun immediate response operations. The agency warned that the death toll is likely to rise as more information becomes available.

The Delegation of the European Union to Afghanistan said on its X page that it was deeply saddened by the“deadly earthquake” in northern Afghanistan, particularly in Balkh and Samangan provinces.

The EU extended condolences to the victims' families and reaffirmed its solidarity with the Afghan people. It added that the UN OCHA Asia Division is conducting aerial assessments in the affected regions.

The World Food Programme (WFP) also expressed sorrow over the tragedy, stating on X that it was“deeply saddened” by the earthquake and is ready to assist in emergency response efforts to support affected families.

The Embassy of Japan in Afghanistan, quoting Ambassador Kenichi Masamoto, conveyed condolences to the victims' families and reaffirmed Japan's readiness to assist those impacted by the disaster.

Similarly, the Embassy of Iran in Kabul said on X that it was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and property caused by the earthquake. The embassy expressed sympathy and prayers for the victims, stating:“The Islamic Republic of Iran, as always, stands with the people of Afghanistan in difficult times and, after consultations with Afghan officials and assessment of local needs, will provide the necessary assistance.”

Also, Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, has expressed sorrow over last night's earthquake in the provinces of Balkh and Samangan.

He offered condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Zalmay Khalilzad, former US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, also expressed sorrow over the earthquake in a message posted on his X account.

sa/ma

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