Iran Dispatches 2 Aid Consignments to Quake-Hit Afghanistan
Iran announced that it has sent two aid cargos to Afghanistan after the deadly quake in the war-stricken country.
In a tweet on Wednesday, the Iranian embassy in Kabul extended its condolences to the people of Afghanistan, saying it has dispatched two cargo planes carrying first aid supplies to the quake-hit country.
It said that relief and rescue teams of Iran’s Red Crescent Society (IRCS) as well as medical and volunteer squads have been put on standby to be deployed to Afghanistan.
“Search, rescue teams, emergency medical services, rescue workers, volunteers, and medical staff of the IRCS are fully prepared to be sent to Afghanistan if requested by the government,” the embassy said.
Earlier on Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh issued a statement, expressing condolences to the families of victims and praying for the full recovery of the wounded.
He also announced Iran’s full readiness to help survivors with relief and rescue efforts.
Also, Iranian Government Spokesman Ali Bahadori Jahromi issued a statement, saying Iran would stand by the people of Afghanistan in this hour of distress and provide the necessary aid.
The caretaker government in Kabul has called on the international community and global charities to help those affected by the massive quake.
The death toll has already surpassed 1,000, with at least 1,500 others injured. According to officials, the casualty toll is likely to mount as the search operation continues.
The 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck about 44 km (27 miles) from the city of Khost, near the Pakistani border, early on Wednesday.
The US Geological Survey later said the magnitude was 5.9, which struck the region on the country’s border with Pakistan, flattening homes and leaving people trapped under the debris.
