World Leaders Express Support for Morocco After Devastating Earthquake

In the wake of a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck central Morocco, world leaders are offering their condolences and support to the North African nation. The earthquake has claimed over 1,000 lives and caused extensive devastation, particularly in the High Atlas Mountains region.

President Joe Biden expressed his deep sadness over the loss of life and the hardship faced by the Moroccan people. He assured that his administration is working closely with Moroccan officials to ensure the safety of American citizens in Morocco and stands ready to provide any necessary assistance. President Biden emphasized the United States’ unwavering support for Morocco during this challenging time.

France and Germany, countries with significant Moroccan populations, have also offered assistance, highlighting the international community’s willingness to aid Morocco in its time of need.

This earthquake is reportedly the strongest ever recorded in the Atlas Mountains region, known for its relative seismic stability. However, Morocco has a history of earthquakes, with one of the deadliest occurring in 1960 when between 12,000 and 15,000 people lost their lives in a quake near the coastal city of Agadir.

Algeria, despite severing ties with Morocco in 2021, has extended a helping hand by offering to open its airspace for humanitarian and medical flights to assist its neighbour.

During the G20 summit in Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged support from the international community for Morocco. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed solidarity and support for the Moroccan people, while French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his devastation over the news and offered assistance.

Leaders from around the world, including US President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have expressed their solidarity with Morocco and its people during this time of mourning.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hosting the G20 Summit, assured Morocco of all possible assistance, demonstrating the unity and support of the global community.

France, Turkey, and Spain, among others, have also echoed their readiness to provide aid to assist with first aid responses and recovery efforts.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) noted that while powerful earthquakes are uncommon in the region, they are not unexpected. The recent earthquake is the strongest in the area in 123 years, according to USGS data.

The deadliest earthquake in Morocco’s recent history occurred in 1960, measuring a magnitude of 5.8 and striking near the city of Agadir, resulting in the tragic loss of approximately 12,000 lives.

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, Morocco faces the immense task of rebuilding and recovering from this devastating natural disaster, with the support and solidarity of the global community standing by its side.