Afghanistan Earthquake Kills Over 660, Injures 1,500, Destroys Villages in Eastern Provinces

A devastating 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, primarily impacting the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, resulting in over 660 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries. The quake, which occurred near Jalalabad at a shallow depth, caused widespread destruction including the collapse of entire villages and homes, complicating rescue efforts due to the region's remote and mountainous terrain. Aftershocks further hampered relief operations as residents and emergency teams searched through rubble for survivors. The United Nations, including WHO and other agencies, quickly mobilized assistance, delivering essential medical supplies and supporting treatment of the injured. The Taliban government reported the casualty figures and highlighted challenges due to difficult access, while international voices such as India's External Affairs Minister expressed solidarity and offered aid. This earthquake is one of the deadliest in recent years for Afghanistan, a country prone to seismic activity from tectonic plate convergence.