Marrakesh: A powerful earthquake that struck Morocco’s High Atlas mountains overnight has claimed the lives of over 1,000 people, with more than 1,200 individuals sustaining injuries. The Interior Ministry announced on Saturday afternoon that the death toll had tragically risen to 1,037.
Over 700 people find themselves in critical condition, and as the rescue operations are still in their initial stages, these figures are expected to rise further in the coming days as emergency responders continue to search for survivors and victims beneath the debris.
Moroccan rescue teams are diligently sifting through the wreckage, with relief efforts being launched in the hardest-hit regions. Germany’s Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) is gearing up for potential relief missions in Morocco following this devastating earthquake.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and making preparations for a potential deployment,” stated a THW spokesperson.
As of now, Morocco has not formally requested assistance from the European Union or Germany in the wake of this calamity.
Leaders from around the world Extend their Condolences
The Chair of the African Union Commission expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophic earthquake in Morocco. “I learned with profound sadness of the tragic consequences of the earthquake that struck the Kingdom of Morocco,” said Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat, offering his heartfelt condolences to the Moroccan monarch, the people of Morocco, and the victims’ families.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the earthquake in Morocco,” conveyed Modi on X. “In this tragic moment, my thoughts are with the Moroccan people. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.”
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez joined other world leaders in reacting to Morocco’s devastating earthquake. “I extend my complete solidarity and support to the people of Morocco following this terrible earthquake… Spain stands in solidarity with the victims of this tragedy and their families,” he posted on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed, “We are all heartbroken after the terrible earthquake in Morocco. France is ready to provide immediate assistance.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his condolences, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also conveyed his sympathy. Erdogan stated, “On this challenging day, we stand united with our Moroccan brothers and sisters, offering all our resources to support them.”
