6.3-Magnitude Earthquake Kills 20+ Injures Hundreds Northern Afghanistan

A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan near Mazar-i-Sharif, killing at least 20 people and injuring hundreds across Balkh and Samangan provinces, with some reports indicating over 530 injured. The tremor caused significant damage, including partial collapse of buildings and damage to the historic Blue Mosque, with rescue and relief operations ongoing amid challenges accessing remote areas. Afghan health authorities and emergency teams are actively responding, transferring the injured to hospitals and setting up makeshift medical centers, while warning of possible increases in casualties as assessments continue. The quake's tremors were felt across neighboring countries and added to Afghanistan's existing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by poverty and limited healthcare access. International aid organizations and UN teams are monitoring the situation closely to coordinate emergency support. Afghanistan's location on major fault lines makes it prone to frequent severe earthquakes, with this event being the fourth major tremor since 2021.