Deadly Quake Sparks Urgent Plea
A devastating Afghanistan earthquake has left over 800 people dead and thousands more injured, forcing the Taliban to urgently call for international aid. Already battling food shortages and reduced foreign funding, the country now faces another crushing humanitarian disaster.
Where the Earthquake Struck
The 6.0-magnitude quake hit just before midnight northeast of Jalalabad in Nangarhar Province, near the Pakistan border. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the shallow depth of 8 km made the tremors especially destructive. Strong aftershocks rocked Kabul and surrounding provinces, while neighboring Pakistan also reported tremors.
Kunar province bore the heaviest devastation, with three villages razed. Damage spread across Laghman, Nuristan, and Panjshir, while residents across the region fled homes in panic. At least five aftershocks followed, the strongest reaching 5.2 magnitude.
Human Toll and Heartbreaking Stories
Nearly half a million people experienced intense shaking. The Taliban confirmed at least 800 deaths and more than 2,800 injuries. Survivors described chaotic scenes as homes collapsed within seconds.
In Kunar, Sadiqullah, a survivor, recounted being trapped under rubble as his wife and sons perished. In Kabul, residents ran into the streets, fearing buildings would cave in. Videos showed frantic searches with shovels, while helicopters airlifted the injured to hospitals.
Relief Efforts Face Funding Shortages
The quake comes as Afghanistan’s aid pipeline dries up. Since the Taliban takeover in 2021, global support has plummeted. US cuts slashed $1.7 billion in contracts earlier this year, while humanitarian funding shrank from $3.8 billion in 2022 to just $767 million in 2025.
The World Food Programme can no longer airlift supplies to remote areas, worsening the crisis. Aid groups warn that Sunday’s disaster could outstrip the already dire needs caused by last year’s deadly quake.
Taliban Appeal for International Help
With destroyed villages and mounting casualties, the Taliban have urged global powers for immediate support. Health ministry officials stressed that thousands lost homes and require shelter, food, and medical care.
The UK pledged £1 million in emergency funding, split between the UN Population Fund and the International Red Cross. China expressed readiness to assist within its capacity, while India dispatched tents and food supplies to affected areas. The US, though offering condolences, has yet to confirm direct aid.
What Lies Ahead
As rescue workers dig through rubble and survivors mourn loved ones, Afghanistan braces for a long recovery. With international funding scarce and aid access limited, the country’s ability to recover depends heavily on global support in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on this developing story.
