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US, Cuba and Iran join global rescue effort after Venezuela earthquakes
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- Deadly twin earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela on 24 June, killing at least 164 people, injuring nearly 1,000, and causing extensive damage, especially in Caracas and northern regions.
- Multiple countries, including the US, Iran, Cuba, Mexico, Brazil, Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and China, have pledged or already provided rescue and humanitarian aid to Venezuela.
- Venezuela faces compounded challenges such as an ongoing economic crisis, flooding, health issues, and a humanitarian crisis affecting nearly 28% of its population, which complicates disaster response efforts.
- The UN and humanitarian organizations emphasize the urgent need for sustained international support, noting that Venezuela’s humanitarian response plans are severely underfunded, with only about 20-28% of required funds delivered.
- Experts warn that the earthquake exacerbates the suffering of millions already in need, calling for immediate and increased donor support to address the catastrophe layered on top of Venezuela’s ongoing crisis.
