A powerful earthquake struck Afghanistan on Sunday, resulting in over 1,400 fatalities and injuring more than 3,000 people. The magnitude-6.0 quake primarily affected the eastern provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, where extensive damage occurred. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported that approximately 5,400 homes were destroyed in the disaster.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, but they face significant challenges due to difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. Many remote villages remain inaccessible, complicating the delivery of aid and rescue operations. "We cannot accurately predict how many bodies might still be trapped under the rubble," said Ehsanullah Ehsan, the provincial head of disaster management. He emphasized the urgency of completing rescue operations and beginning aid distribution.

The United Nations has warned that the death toll may rise as rescue teams reach more isolated areas. Indrika Ratwatte, the UN's resident coordinator for Afghanistan, highlighted the dire situation, stating, "We cannot afford to forget the people of Afghanistan who are facing multiple crises, multiple shocks, and the resilience of the communities has been saturated."

In the aftermath of the earthquake, many survivors are living outdoors after losing their homes. The UN has reported that thousands of children are particularly vulnerable. UNICEF is sending essential supplies, including medicine, clothing, tents, and hygiene items, to assist those affected.

International aid has been slow to arrive. The UK has pledged £1 million ($2.56 million) to support relief efforts, while countries like China, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran have also offered assistance. India has sent 1,000 tents and 15 tons of food to Kunar, with more aid expected.

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan has been exacerbated by a significant reduction in foreign aid since the Taliban took control in 2021. The US decision to cut funding to the humanitarian arm of USAID has further strained resources. A spokesperson for Afghanistan's foreign office noted that no international governments had reached out for rescue support, although China expressed readiness to provide disaster relief.

As rescue teams mobilize, military helicopters are evacuating injured victims and delivering supplies to affected areas. The UN has committed to providing on-the-ground assistance, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing solidarity with the Afghan people. "I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to those injured," he stated.