A 6.0-magnitude earthquake has struck eastern Afghanistan, near the city of Jalalabad, causing widespread devastation and over 800 reported deaths
The earthquake, which occurred late Sunday, has left thousands injured and many trapped under collapsed buildings in the mountainous region. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that the earthquake’s epicenter is near Jalalabad, approximately 120 kilometers east of Kabul, with subsequent aftershocks including a 4.5-magnitude tremor and a more powerful 5.2-magnitude quake. The disaster has left entire villages flattened, with rescue teams working tirelessly to locate survivors.
Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has urged the mobilization of all available resources to assist those affected. International aid is being sought, with Iran offering assistance and the Taliban requesting urgent medical supplies and rescue equipment. The catastrophic event underscores the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, following a deadly 2023 earthquake in Herat Province that claimed over 2,400 lives.
Authorities have confirmed that casualties have been reported across multiple districts, including Nur Gal, Sawki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara. Due to the challenging terrain and damaged infrastructure, the full extent of the disaster is still being assessed. Military helicopters and rescue teams are working to evacuate the injured and deliver aid, though mountain passes remain blocked and communications are disrupted. The situation has prompted calls for international humanitarian support, with officials emphasizing the urgency of providing medical supplies, tents, and rescue equipment to the affected areas.
The earthquake has sparked widespread concern among residents and global observers, with many highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Afghanistan in recovery efforts. Despite the government’s efforts to manage the crisis, the scale of the disaster remains a daunting task. With the region already recovering from a major earthquake in October 2023, the repeated exposure to seismic disasters raises questions about the country’s preparedness and resilience. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community is being urged to provide critical assistance to mitigate the humanitarian crisis unfolding in eastern Afghanistan.