Afghanistan Expresses Gratitude to IRCS for Life-Saving Aid to Earthquake Victims

In the wake of a devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has been recognized for its swift humanitarian response. This tragic event, which struck the region, has led to significant loss of life and widespread destruction, prompting international support and solidarity.

On August 31, at 23:47 local time, a powerful earthquake measuring over 6.0 on the Richter scale struck Afghanistan’s Nangarhar Province, near the border with Pakistan. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported that Iran was the first nation to send crucial humanitarian aid to the affected areas, particularly in Kunar.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located in the Kama district, approximately 30 km northeast of Jalalabad. The quake’s shallow hypocenter, estimated to be between 8 to 10 km beneath the surface, intensified its destructive impact. Following the initial quake, several aftershocks were recorded, affecting neighboring provinces including:

• Kunar
• Laghman
• Nuristan
• Kabul

On September 5, a second earthquake, measuring 5.5 in magnitude, further destabilized the already vulnerable villages. The Taliban administration reported a staggering death toll of 2,205 individuals, with at least 3,640 injured. The United Nations has raised concerns that these numbers may increase, as many remain trapped under the rubble.

In addition to the tragic loss of life, over 6,700 homes have been destroyed, displacing tens of thousands of people who are now in critical need of assistance. The humanitarian crisis has prompted responses from various officials and organizations. Pirhossein Kolivand, the head of the IRCS, expressed his condolences, stating:

“It is with profound sorrow that we learned about the devastating earthquake that hit Nangarhar, Kunar, Nuristan, and Laghman in eastern Afghanistan, causing many losses of life and injuries. The Iranian Red Crescent Society offers sincere condolences to you and the family of the victims. We stand by the people of Afghanistan, and we are ready to dispatch humanitarian aid as well as relief teams if needed.”

Following the earthquake, President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his heartfelt sorrow for the “friendly and brotherly” nation of Afghanistan and wished for the swift recovery of the injured. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also conveyed his sympathies, emphasizing Iran’s readiness to provide relief and medical teams to assist the affected regions.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei reiterated this commitment, highlighting Iran’s preparedness to support the treatment of the injured and collaborate with Afghanistan to alleviate the suffering caused by this disaster. The initial humanitarian response included:

• 100 tons of essential goods
• 50 tons of relief supplies
• 60 tons transported overland through the Dogharon border

The shipment consisted of vital resources such as clothing, rice, beans, blankets, and canned food. Razieh Alishavandi, an official from the IRCS, stated:

“Iran’s Red Crescent Society always stands by nations caught in humanitarian crises, and in this bitter incident, as always, it will stand with all its might by the noble and affected people of Afghanistan.”

A second shipment sent on September 6 to Kabul included:

• 37 tons of foodstuffs
• 8 tons of sanitary packages
• 10,000 blankets

The third consignment, transported on six trucks on September 7, featured essential items such as tents, dishes, rice, canned food, and hygiene kits. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies estimated that around 84,000 people have been affected directly or indirectly by the earthquakes, with thousands more displaced.

A report by the British charity Islamic Relief Worldwide indicated that in some villages, up to two-thirds of residents were either killed or injured, with almost all buildings severely damaged or destroyed. Humanitarian organizations are urging the international community to increase support, emphasizing the need to not only save lives but also assist Afghanistan in recovering from this latest crisis.

As the situation unfolds, the dedication of the Iranian Red Crescent Society and the collective efforts of humanitarian groups remain vital in addressing the urgent needs of those impacted by this disaster. The global community’s response will play a crucial role in supporting Afghanistan during this challenging time.