Morocco is reeling from a powerful earthquake that has exacted a terrible toll, with the government reporting a staggering 1,000 lives lost and 329 individuals injured. The earthquake, which struck late on Friday, has left a trail of destruction, reducing buildings to rubble and damaging historic sites, including parts of the renowned red walls encircling the UNESCO World Heritage site of Marrakech.
Initially measured by the United States Geological Survey at a preliminary magnitude of 6.8 when it struck at 11:11 pm, the quake unleashed several seconds of intense shaking. Morocco’s National Seismic Monitoring and Alert Network, however, recorded its magnitude at 7 on the Richter scale. Just 19 minutes later, the US agency reported an aftershock with a magnitude of 4.9.
In the aftermath of this catastrophic event, numerous foreign governments have reached out, offering aid and support to assist in Morocco’s recovery efforts. Here is a glimpse of the international response to this devastating earthquake:
Algeria: Despite diplomatic tensions with Morocco, Algeria has pledged to open its airspace for humanitarian and medical flights bound for Morocco. Algeria’s presidency expressed its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance should Morocco request such aid.
Turkey: Ankara has conveyed its willingness to offer diverse forms of support in the aftermath of the earthquake. Turkey’s disaster management authority, AFAD, has rapidly mobilized 265 aid workers from AFAD, Turkish Red Crescent, and other non-governmental organizations, prepared to assist if international aid is required. Moreover, Turkey stands ready to deliver 1,000 tents to the affected areas.
Germany: Speaking at a G20 summit in New Delhi, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed deep concern and commitment to organize support. Germany has already activated its technical relief agency, ready to contribute to the ongoing efforts.
United States: Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed his profound sadness at the loss of life and widespread destruction resulting from the earthquake. The United States has pledged to provide any necessary assistance as Morocco navigates this tragic situation.
France: France has promptly offered its rescue and assistance to the affected populations. The Paris region has extended financial aid of 500,000 euros, with other regions jointly pledging 1 million euros in humanitarian assistance.
Spain: Spain’s military emergency unit and diplomatic missions have made themselves available to Morocco. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares affirmed their readiness to assist Morocco during this challenging period.
Israel: Israel has extended a supportive hand to Morocco in this trying time, offering assistance and support. Israel’s national medical and disaster emergency service, Magen David Adom, has reached out to the Moroccan Red Crescent, offering aid and prepared to dispatch teams for assistance.
Tunisia: The Tunisian presidency has authorized coordination with Moroccan authorities, pledging urgent aid and support. This includes civil protection teams and relief operations assistance. Additionally, the Tunisian Red Crescent is set to contribute to relief operations and support the injured.
Kuwait: Kuwait’s Emir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has directed the government to provide all necessary relief supplies for Morocco.
Romania: Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu affirmed that Romanian authorities are in close contact with Moroccan counterparts and are ready to offer assistance.
Taiwan: Taiwan’s fire department has assembled a team of 120 rescuers on standby, prepared to depart for Morocco upon receiving instructions from Taiwan’s foreign ministry.
In the face of this devastating earthquake, numerous foreign leaders have expressed their condolences and unwavering support for Morocco during this difficult time. The international community stands united with Morocco, offering aid, expertise, and assistance to help the nation recover from this tragic event.
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