Sheikh Shahabuddin Delawar, President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), has called for broad and urgent international assistance for victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Kunar province earlier this week.

Speaking during an online meeting with officials from national societies on Wednesday, Delawar described the scale of destruction as immense, stressing that survivors are in desperate need of immediate relief.

The meeting, attended by representatives from 75 countries as well as partner organizations including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the Norwegian Red Cross, focused on the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in eastern Afghanistan.

According to Delawar, the earthquake left behind a large number of casualties and injuries while destroying thousands of homes. He underlined that victims urgently require shelter, clean drinking water, food supplies, and extensive medical care.

Afghan Red Crescent emergency teams have been deployed to the affected areas, providing humanitarian assistance across multiple sectors despite the significant logistical challenges in reaching remote communities.

“The level of damage is immense,” Delawar said, reiterating his appeal for swift and comprehensive aid.

Officials from various national societies expressed condolences for the victims and pledged to increase support through the Afghan Red Crescent. They committed to strengthening humanitarian efforts and mobilizing resources to meet the immediate needs of those affected.

The Afghan Red Crescent emphasized that ongoing cooperation with international partners will be critical in ensuring timely relief and in helping thousands of families begin the process of recovery. (ILKHA)