Int'l Response & Aid Offers in Wake of Morocco Earthquake

Numerous foreign governments have extended offers of aid and expressed their reactions following the powerful earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday, causing over 1,000 fatalities and widespread destruction in one of the deadliest tremors the country has experienced in decades.

ALGERIA

Algeria, which severed diplomatic ties with Morocco two years ago, announced that it would open its airspace for humanitarian and medical flights to Morocco. Algeria's presidency stated that it stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance and offer its resources, both material and human, in solidarity with the Moroccan people if requested.

TURKEY

The Turkish Foreign Ministry affirmed its readiness to offer comprehensive support "to heal the wounds of the earthquake in Morocco." Turkey's AFAD disaster management authority disclosed that 265 aid workers from AFAD, the Turkish Red Crescent, and other Turkish NGOs were prepared to travel to the affected region in response to Morocco's call for international assistance. Additionally, Turkey expressed its willingness to deliver 1,000 tents to the impacted areas.

GERMANY

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, speaking at a G20 summit in New Delhi, expressed condolences and stated that Germany is in the process of organizing support. The country has already mobilized its technical relief agency and is committed to providing the necessary assistance to those affected by the earthquake.

UNITED STATES

Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed his deep sadness and extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the earthquake in Morocco. He assured that the United States is prepared to offer any necessary assistance as Morocco responds to this tragic event.

FRANCE

The French Foreign Ministry declared that France is ready to immediately provide assistance for rescue and aid operations to the affected populations in Morocco. Valerie Pecresse, president of the Paris region, announced a 500,000 euro ($535,000) aid package for Morocco, while various regions in France pledged 1 million euros in humanitarian aid.

SPAIN

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares expressed Spain's readiness to assist Morocco, mentioning that the Spain military emergency unit, embassy, and consulates are at Morocco's disposal. Spain's Firefighters Without Frontiers also offered their support, stating their willingness to help and collaborate with Moroccan authorities.

ISRAEL

Foreign Minister Eli Cohen announced that Israel is extending its hand to Morocco during this difficult time. The Magen David Adom national medical and disaster emergency service reached out to the Moroccan Red Crescent, offering assistance. Representatives from Magen David Adom, along with delegations from the Ministry of Health and the Israel Defense Forces, are preparing to depart and join relief efforts in Morocco.

TUNISIA

The Tunisian presidency authorized coordination with Moroccan authorities to provide urgent aid and dispatch civil protection teams to support search and rescue operations. They also facilitated a delegation from the Tunisian Red Crescent to contribute to relief efforts and provide care for the injured.

KUWAIT

Kuwait's Emir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah directed the government to supply all necessary relief provisions to Morocco.

ROMANIA

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu confirmed that Romanian authorities are in close contact with Moroccan counterparts and ready to offer assistance.

TAIWAN

Taiwan's fire department prepared a team of 120 rescuers on standby, awaiting instructions from Taiwan's foreign ministry to deploy to Morocco and provide assistance.

Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its sincere condolences to the government and people of the sisterly Kingdom of Morocco. Following a series of earthquakes that struck the country, resulting in the death and injury of a number of individuals.

China

Chinese President to King Mohammed VI: I was shocked to learn that a strong earthquake occurred in your country, and I am confident that Morocco will overcome the effects of the disaster and quickly rebuild the nation. (Official)

Spanish League

The Spanish League, in coordination with the Spanish Football Federation, has decided to observe a minute of silence before every match in the first and second Spanish leagues, mourning the victims of the earthquake in Morocco.

Bayern Munich

Deepest condolences from Bayern Munich to the victims of the earthquake in Morocco, and wishes for the safety of those affected. Our hearts are with you.