A powerful earthquake, the deadliest in decades, has hit Morocco, causing widespread destruction and claiming the lives of over 1,000 people. The earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, struck a mountainous area near Marrakesh, a popular tourist destination.
The earthquake has caused immense devastation, with the majority of casualties occurring in the Al-Haouz and Taroudant provinces. More than 1,200 people have been injured, with 721 in critical condition. The international community has expressed condolences and offered assistance to Morocco. Algeria, a neighboring country and regional rival, has even lifted its ban on Moroccan flights to facilitate aid delivery and medical evacuations.
Support from Kuwait
The Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, has sent a message of condolences to the Moroccan King, expressing deep sorrow for the victims and their families. The Kuwaiti government has also directed relevant entities to prepare food supplies for the people of Morocco. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, will coordinate the delivery of relief supplies to assist those affected by the earthquake.
Assistance from Local Charities
The Minister of Social Affairs in Kuwait has instructed local charities to organize a donation campaign to help the earthquake victims in Morocco. The Kuwait Red Crescent Society has expressed readiness to provide assistance and necessities to those affected by the disaster. They have also reached out to the Moroccan Red Crescent Society to offer support and express their wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured.
Safety of Kuwaiti Citizens
All Kuwaiti citizens in Morocco have been confirmed safe, with no reported injuries. The Kuwaiti embassy in Morocco has been in contact with local authorities to ensure the well-being of Kuwaiti nationals. The embassy has reassured the public that all Kuwaiti citizens present in Morocco are accounted for and unharmed.
Rescue Efforts and Damage
The earthquake caused significant damage in several cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, and Essaouira. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to find survivors in the rubble of collapsed buildings. The Moroccan army has set up a field hospital in one of the affected villages and deployed resources to support the rescue operation. Experts have noted that the earthquake is the strongest ever recorded in Morocco and the most powerful in the region in over 120 years.
Witness Accounts
Residents and tourists have shared their experiences during the earthquake. Many were terrified and sought safety as buildings shook violently. Some people slept outside due to fear of aftershocks. Witnesses reported collapsed structures, including a minaret in Jemaa el-Fna square. The earthquake has left people in shock, with some losing family members and others describing the chaos and devastation they witnessed.
Response and Assistance
The Moroccan authorities have mobilized all necessary resources to provide assistance to the affected areas. The regional transfusion center in Marrakesh has called on residents to donate blood for the injured. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has postponed a scheduled match indefinitely. The USGS PAGER system has issued a "red alert" for economic losses, indicating extensive damage.
Despite the immense challenges caused by this earthquake, the international community stands united in offering support and aid to Morocco during this difficult time.
