Azerbaijan offers condolences following devastating earthquake in Afghanistan

The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep sympathy to Afghanistan after a powerful earthquake caused significant casualties and destruction.

According to Caliber.Az, the ministry stated on its official X page.

“We are deeply saddened by the news of the devastating earthquake in Afghanistan. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Afghanistan during this difficult time.”

More than 600 people have died and over 1,500 have been injured in one of Afghanistan's deadliest earthquakes, officials reported on September 1, as helicopters transported the wounded to hospitals after being rescued from the rubble.

The disaster is expected to further strain the country's already limited resources amid ongoing humanitarian challenges, including reduced aid and the forced return of many citizens from neighbouring states.

The Taliban-run interior ministry confirmed that the magnitude 6 quake struck the eastern provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, destroying numerous homes. "All our ... teams have been mobilised to accelerate assistance, so that comprehensive and full support can be provided," ministry spokesperson Abdul Maten Qanee told Reuters, highlighting efforts in security, food, and health.

In Kabul, authorities said rescuers were racing to reach remote villages in an area historically prone to earthquakes and floods. The quake is Afghanistan's deadliest since June 2022, when a 6.1-magnitude tremor killed at least 1,000 people.

By Aghakazim Guliyev