Devastating Earthquake in Kunar: 622 Dead, 1,555 Injured

Kokcha News Agency: Authorities from the Disaster Management Department in Kunar province, eastern Afghanistan, have confirmed that last night’s earthquake has resulted in 622 deaths and 1,555 injuries. The casualties were reported in the districts of Watapur, Manogi, Chapadara, Sawki, and Nurgal. Officials have emphasized that many people are still trapped under debris, and the death toll is likely to rise.

The earthquake, which occurred around 12:00 AM last night, had a magnitude of 6.0 and was centered near Asadabad, the capital of Kunar province, at a depth of approximately 27 kilometers. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban government, stated that local authorities and residents are working to rescue survivors, and relief teams have been dispatched from central and neighboring provinces.

🔹A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Kunar province in eastern Afghanistan last night, killing 622 people and injuring 1,555, according to the latest reports. Rescue efforts are underway as many remain trapped under rubble.#Afghanistan #Asadabad #Casualties #Disaster… pic.twitter.com/Yz7aN7wDPN

— Kokcha Press خبرگزاری کوکچه (@kokchapress) September 1, 2025

The United Nations has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan and announced that its emergency response teams have arrived in the affected areas to assist the victims. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the UN wrote: “We are deeply saddened by the devastating earthquake that shook the eastern region, claiming hundreds of lives and injuring many more. Our teams are on the ground providing emergency aid and life-saving support. We stand in solidarity with the affected communities.”

Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and those affected by the earthquake. In a post on X, he said: “I woke up to the news of the devastating earthquake in Kunar. My heart goes out to the families and communities affected. I wish strength and success to the rescue teams.”

In a heartfelt message, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, conveyed the profound grief and solidarity of the Iranian government and people following the severe earthquake in eastern Afghanistan. The earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of hundreds of lives and left many injured.

Amir-Abdollahian stated: “In these difficult and tragic moments, we extend our sincere condolences and empathy to the great nation of Afghanistan and the bereaved families. The Islamic Republic of Iran is fully prepared to send humanitarian, medical, and relief aid.”

Turkey Offers Condolences After Deadly Earthquake in Afghanistan

The Turkish Embassy in Kabul announced its profound sadness upon learning of the significant loss of life in last night’s earthquake in Afghanistan. In a statement, the embassy said: “We pray to Almighty God for mercy for those who lost their lives and a speedy recovery for the injured. We extend our condolences to our brotherly Afghan people.”

The statement further emphasized that Turkey is closely following developments in the affected region and stands in solidarity with Afghanistan during this difficult time.