Afghanistan rocked by devastating earthquake: 15 dead and 78 injured

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 has struck western Afghanistan, near the border with Iran, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 15 lives and leaving 78 individuals injured. The quake, which occurred at approximately 11:00 local time, caused significant damage to buildings and trapped numerous people under rubble. Immediate rescue efforts are underway, but communication networks have been disrupted, leaving countless families anxiously waiting for news about their loved ones. The main hospital in the city of Herat is treating over 70 injured individuals, while residents express their shock and fear following the terrifying ordeal. This devastating earthquake serves as a stark reminder of Afghanistan’s vulnerability to seismic activity, with the region being prone to frequent tremors due to its proximity to the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. The province of Herat, recognized as the cultural heart of the country, is home to an estimated 1.9 million residents. The impact of this disaster is compounded by the fact that Afghanistan continues to grapple with ongoing political and social challenges, making it all the more imperative to provide immediate assistance and support to the affected communities.