06-02-2023
13:03
Assad visits quake survivors in Aleppo
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad visiting the Aleppo University Hospital on February 10, 2023. Photo: Assad's office
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Friday conducted a visit to the Aleppo University Hospital to check up on those injured as a result of the massive earthquake.
The president was accompanied by his wife, Asma al-Assad.
At least 3,384 people have been killed across Syria due to the quake, with over 5,000 others reportedly injured.
Areas held by rebels and Turkey-backed groups are the hardest hit and little aid has reached these regions.
On Thursday, the first UN aid crossed the border into northwest Syria. Six trucks from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) brought basic relief items, shelter materials, and solar lamps for 5,000 people. "We are working very closely with authorities to support in any way we can and hope that aid will quickly reach those most impacted," said IOM Director General António Vitorino.
The UN estimates at least 6 million people in Syria have been affected by the quake in areas where lack of equipment and fuel are hampering rescue efforts.
09:52
Turkey death toll over 18,000: Disaster agency
Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) raised the quake death toll across the country to 18,342 on Friday morning, four days following the natural disaster.
The agency also mentioned that 75,780 others were wounded.
Continue Reading00:15
Overall quake death toll surpasses 20,000
Aftermath of the disastrous earthquake in Turkey’s Adiyaman (Samsur) on February 9, 2023. Photo: Murat Bulut/Rudaw
The combined quake death toll for Syria and Turkey surpassed 20,000 on Thursday evening, with more than 75,000 others wounded in both countries as a result of the destructive earthquake.
Turkey's disaster agency said that at least 17,134 people have already lost their lives across the country, with an additional 70,347 injured.
Syria's health ministry raised the death toll in the regime-controlled areas to 1,347, adding that at least 2,295 others were wounded.
The White Helmets reported 1,970 deaths in rebel held areas of Syria, in addition to over 2950 injured.
Continue Reading17:12
Turkey quake death toll over 16,000; parliament approves state of emergency
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday afternoon raised the country’s death toll to at least 16,170, adding that an additional 64,194 have been injured.
The Turkish parliament also approved a state of emergency for three months in the 10 quake-hit provinces across the country.
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The Turkish parliament also approved a state of emergency for three months in the 10 quake-hit provinces across the country.
14:23
Turkey death toll climbs to 14,351
The death toll from the devastating earthquake in Turkey has risen to 14,351, Vice President Fuat Oktay said Thursday afternoon.
Continue Reading13:26
Turkey death roll rises to 14,014
At least 14,014 people have been killed as of Wednesday afternoon by a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in a press conference.
The number of injuries also rose to 63,794, according to Erdogan.
Continue Reading11:55
At least 28,044 evacuated from quake-hit provinces: disaster agency
Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) on Thursday said at least 28,044 people have been evacuated from the ten provinces struck by the deadly quake which hit the city of Kahramanmaras.
“As of 11:38 [am] today, 28 thousand [and] 44 people were evacuated from the provinces affected by the Kahramanmaras-centered earthquakes by road, rail, and air,” state media cited AFAD as saying.
At least 12,873 people have been killed Turkey and around 63,000 others injured by the quake's effects, according to the latest tally by the disaster agency.
Continue Reading08:04
Twitter access being restored in Turkey after restrictions
File photo: AFP
NetBlocks, an international on-partisan group monitoring internet access, reported on Thursday morning that access was being restored in Turkey after restrictions were noted a day before.
"The filtering measure is likely to impact community rescue efforts underway after the series of deadly earthquakes on Monday," the monitor warned.
Our @netblocks partners have spotted that Twitter has been restricted in #Turkey following the earthquake. Project Owl is constantly monitoring the situation on Discord. Join us here: https://t.co/g4tOyKbcz5 https://t.co/l6ZbN9lQgu
— Project Owl (@projectowlosint) February 8, 2023
Twitter Chief Executive Elon Musk said the Turkish government had informed the company that full access would be restored.
Twitter has been informed by the Turkish government that access will be reenabled shortly
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 8, 2023
On Wednesday, Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Omer Fatih Sayan held a virtual meeting with Twitter officials to “remind” the company of its “responsibilities towards disinformation,” Anadolu reported.
Turkish authorities have detained 18 people since the earthquake over what they called “provocative” posts on social media criticizing Erdogan’s response to the disaster. He has also issued several warnings about spreading misinformation online.
The Turkish President admitted to “shortcomings” in the government’s response but vowed to increase efforts.
07:29
Quake death toll climbs to over 15,000 in Turkey, Syria
Dead bodies from the earthquake that struck Turkey in Adiyaman (Samsur) on February 8, 2023. Photo: Murad Bulut/Rudaw
At least 12,391 people have been killed and 62,914 injured in Turkey according to the country’s disaster agency.
In Syria, at least 2,992 have been killed based on figures from the Syrian health ministry and a rescue group.
20:53
Syria quake death toll rises to 2,992
The death toll from the devastating earthquake in Syria has risen to 2,992, according to the latest tally from the health ministry and the White Helmets.
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18:25
At least 9,000 dead in Turkey quake: new toll
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaking from earthquake-hit Hatay province on February 8, 2023. Photo: AA
The deadly 7.8-magnitude earthquake has killed 9,057 people in Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said from Hatay province on Wednesday evening, one of the most affected areas by the quake.
Erdogan added that over 52,979 people have been injured by the tremor.
Continue Reading17:44
Turkey suspends Istanbul stock market temporarily
Turkey announced Wednesday evening that the Istanbul stock market has been suspended for five working days to prevent selloff following the earthquake disaster in the country.
“Our stock exchange has decided to halt trading in equities, futures and options markets,” Borsa Istanbul said in a statement as cited by state-owned TRT Haber.
The stock exchange added that Wednesday's transactions will be canceled.
A massive 7.8-magnitude quake struck southern Turkey on Monday dawn, killing 8,574 people and injuring nearly 50,000 others.
Continue Reading14:19
Overall death toll in Turkey, Syria crosses 11,000
A woman weeps as she stands beside the body of one of the earthquake victims in Turkey’s Hatay on February 7, 2023. Photo: Bulent Kilic/AFP
The combined death toll of both Turkey and Syria reached at least 11,236 people on Wednesday afternoon.
"As of now, the number of deceased is 8 thousand 574, the number of injured 49 thousand 133, the number of destroyed buildings 6 thousand 444," said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
At least 2,662 people have been reported dead in Syria, with nearly 5,000 others wounded.
Continue Reading
"As of now, the number of deceased is 8 thousand 574, the number of injured 49 thousand 133, the number of destroyed buildings 6 thousand 444," said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
At least 2,662 people have been reported dead in Syria, with nearly 5,000 others wounded.
13:15
Over 9,700 dead in Turkey, Syria
The Syrian health ministry said on Wednesday afternoon that 1,262 people are dead and 2,285 injured in regime-controlled areas. The White Helmets reported 1,400 deaths in rebel held areas, raising the total in Syria to at least 2,662 dead.
At least 7,108 people were killed and 40,910 injured in Turkey.
Continue Reading11:25
President Erdogan heading to southern Turkey to inspect damage
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to visit southern Turkey on Wednesday to inspect the disaster areas affected by the deadly earthquakes that struck the country two days ago.
Erdogan is expected to visit Kahramanmaras, the epicenter of the quake, and then Hatay, one of the most affected areas in Turkey.
At least 6,957 people are dead and 38,224 injured according to Turkey’s disaster agency.
09:58
Turkey quake death toll crosses 6,000
A man walks part the rubble of collapsed buildings in Kahramanmaras, on February 7, 2023. Photo: Ozan Kose/AFP
The Turkish disaster management agency on Wednesday morning raised the earthquake death toll across the country to 6,324.
The natural disaster has also left at least 37,011 have been wounded. Continue Reading
The natural disaster has also left at least 37,011 have been wounded. Continue Reading
00:13
Syria quake death toll rises to at least 1,932
An aerial picture shows rescuers searching the rubble of buildings for casualties and survivors in the village of Salqin in Syria's rebel-held northwestern Idlib province at the border with Turkey following an earthquake, on February 7, 2023. Photo: Omar Haj Kadour/AFP
At least 1,932 people have so far lost their lives across Syria following the massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake, according to the country’s health ministry and a humanitarian group on Tuesday evening.
The Syrian health ministry reported that at least 812 people were killed and 1,449 injured in areas controlled by the regime.
In the rebel-held northwest, the White Helmets rescue group said that over 1120 people lost their lives and more than 2,500 others were injured.
More than 375 building have completely collapsed, and over 1200 others have partially collapsed in northwest Syria because of the quake, the White Helmets added.
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The Syrian health ministry reported that at least 812 people were killed and 1,449 injured in areas controlled by the regime.
In the rebel-held northwest, the White Helmets rescue group said that over 1120 people lost their lives and more than 2,500 others were injured.
More than 375 building have completely collapsed, and over 1200 others have partially collapsed in northwest Syria because of the quake, the White Helmets added.
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21:43
Death toll in Turkey climbs to 5,434: Health minister
Mesut Hancer holds the hand of his 15-year-old daughter Irmak, who died in the earthquake in southern Turkey’s Kahramanmaras, on February 7, 2023. Photo: Adem Altan/AFP
Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca announced on Tuesday evening that the death toll across the country has climbed to at least 5,434 people.
The minister also announced that at least 31,777 were wounded as a result of the massive quake.
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The minister also announced that at least 31,777 were wounded as a result of the massive quake.
21:09
Iran’s Raisi extends condolences to Erdogan, Assad
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Tuesday extended his condolences to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in separate phone calls, following a massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake that ripped through the two countries at dawn the day prior.
Raisi expressed Iran’s readiness to provide relief aid for the victims of the earthquake during the phone call with Erdogan, stressing that Iran and Turkey are not only neighbors “but also friends and brothers.”
“Iran has always stood by the Syrian nation and government in difficult times and is now ready to provide immediate relief to the Syrian earthquake victims,” Iranian state media cited Raisi as saying during the phone call with Assad.
Continue Reading
Raisi expressed Iran’s readiness to provide relief aid for the victims of the earthquake during the phone call with Erdogan, stressing that Iran and Turkey are not only neighbors “but also friends and brothers.”
“Iran has always stood by the Syrian nation and government in difficult times and is now ready to provide immediate relief to the Syrian earthquake victims,” Iranian state media cited Raisi as saying during the phone call with Assad.
20:20
Turkey's death toll rises to 4,544
At least 4,544 people have so far been killed in Turkey as a result of the disastrous earthquake that ripped through the country and neighboring Syria on Monday morning, according to Turkey's disaster agency.
The agency also mentioned that an additional 26,721 people were wounded.
Continue Reading19:20
Canada to provide $10 million in aid to Turkey, Syria
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Tuesday that his country will be providing $10 million in “immediate aid” to the people of Turkey and Syria.
Continue ReadingAfter yesterday’s devastating earthquakes, we’re providing $10 million in immediate aid to the people of Türkiye and Syria – and we’ll continue to provide support as the situation evolves. Our partners are already distributing food, emergency fuel, and shelter items.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 7, 2023
18:23
At least 3,703 dead in Turkey quake: new toll
At least 3,703 people were killed in the latest death toll announced by Turkey's disaster agency Tuesday evening following a massive 7.8-magnitude tremor that rocked the country at dawn the day prior.
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17:50
Syria quake death toll rises to 1,712
The death toll from the 7.8-magnitude earthquake reached 1,712 in Syria, the health ministry and a humanitarian group announced Tuesday evening.
The Syrian health ministry reported that 812 people were killed and 1,449 injured in areas controlled by the regime.
In the rebel-held northwest, the White Helmets rescue group said that over 900 people lost their lives and at least 2,300 others were injured.
Continue Reading14:58
Turkey death toll climbs to at least 3,549: Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday afternoon said that the death toll in Turkey had climbed to at least 3,549 with 22,168 people injured.
He added that 53,317 volunteers are working to rescue people from under the rubble and that 54,000 and 102,000 beds will be sent from the government to those in need.
Erdogan said Qatar is preparing to send 11,000 containers of humanitarian aid to Turkey and that there other countries set to follow suit.
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12:01
Overall earthquake death toll surpasses 5,000
Flowers tied with a black ribbon are seen left outside the Turkish embassy in Moscow on February 7, 2023. Photo: Natalia Kolesnikova/AFP
Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said on Tuesday that the death toll climbed to at least 3,419 and 25,534 wounded. He added that 8,000 people had been rescued from the rubble so far.
Syria’s White Helmets also reported at least 790 dead in rebel held areas, raising the toll in the country to at least 1,602.
Oktay stated that vehicle entry to the earthquake zones has been suspended, with access only allowed to emergency response services.
Continue Reading
11:29
World Health Organization to send assistance to Syria, Turkey
Syrian rescuers carry a body past the collapsed buildings on February 6, 2022 in the town of Sarmada, in Syria's rebel-held northwestern Idlib province. Photo: Aaref Watad/AFP
The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday that it would dispatch three charter flights to Turkey and Syria to provide emergency assistance, adding that medical teams have been activated to provide care to the injured.
"It’s now a race against time. Every minute, every hour that passes, the chances of finding survivors alive diminishes,” Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.
He added that the ongoing aftershocks as well as worsening weather conditions are hampering search and rescue operations.
"This is a moment when we must come together in solidarity, as one humanity, to save lives and alleviate the suffering of people who have already suffered so much,” he said.
10:37
Over 1,550 people dead in Syria
Over 1,550 people dead in Syria according to government figures and reports from the White Helmets.
At least 812 people were reported dead and 1,449 injured in Aleppo, Latakia, Hama, and Tartus provinces. The White Helmets also reported 740 deaths and 3,381 injured in rebel held areas.
09:35
Death toll rises to 3,381
The death toll from the 7.8-magnitude tremor that struck southern Turkey has risen to 3,381 and 20,426 people have been injured, the country's disaster agency announced Tuesday morning.
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08:35
Turkey quake death toll rises to 2,921
At least 2,921 people have been killed and 15,834 injured in the deadly 7.8-magnitude tremor that rocked southern Turkey, the country's disaster agency announced early Tuesday.
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23:30
Turkey quake death toll rises to 2,316
At least 2,316 people have been killed and 13,293 injured in the deadly 7.8-magnitude tremor that rocked southern Turkey, the country's disaster agency announced late Monday.
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22:46
Nearly 1,300 dead in new Syria quake toll
Nearly 1,300 people have been killed across Syria following a deadly 7.8-magnitude tremor that was concentrated on neighboring Turkey, the country's health ministry and a rescue team reported.
At least 593 people were killed and 1,411 injured in Syrian territories under the control of the government, the Syrian health ministry said.
The White Helmets rescue group also reported that at least 700 people were killed and more than 2,000 injured in the country's rebel-held northwest.
Continue Reading22:22
Quake toll in Turkey rises to 1,762
Photo: AA
The death toll from the 7.8-magnitude tremor that struck southern Turkey has risen to 1,762, the country's disaster agency announced Monday night.
The earthquake, which struck at dawn, is the deadliest in the region in nearly a century.
Continue Reading20:58
Turkey announces week-long national mourning for quake victims
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared seven days of national mourning Monday evening for victims of the region's deadliest quake in nearly a century.
At least 1,651 people have been killed in Turkey and 11,119 injured in the aftermath of the quake, according to the country's health minister.
Continue Reading20:49
At least 1,000 dead in Syria as quake toll rises
This aerial view shows residents, aided by heavy equipment, searching for victims and survivors amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings following an earthquake in the village of Besnia near the town of Harim, in Syria's rebel-held noryhwestern Idlib province on the border with Turkey, on February 6, 2022. Photo: AFP
At least 1,000 people have been killed across Syria in the region's deadliest earthquake in nearly a century, the health ministry and a humanitarian group said Monday evening.
Syria's health ministry reported that 570 were killed and 1,403 were injured in the country's regime-held areas.
Meanwhile in the rebel-held northwest, 430 people were killed and more than 1,050 others were injured, according to the White Helmets humanitarian group. Continue Reading
Syria's health ministry reported that 570 were killed and 1,403 were injured in the country's regime-held areas.
Meanwhile in the rebel-held northwest, 430 people were killed and more than 1,050 others were injured, according to the White Helmets humanitarian group. Continue Reading
20:17
Quake death toll in Turkey rises to 1,651: Minister
Rescue workers and volunteers pull out a survivor from the rubble in Diyarbakir (Amed) on February 6, 2023. Photo: AFP
The death toll from Turkey's massive earthquake has risen to 1,651, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said Monday evening, with the 7.8-magnitude tremor being the region's strongest in nearly a century.
The minister added that 11,119 people have been injured as a result of the quake.
Continue Reading20:16
More than 960 dead in Syria following quake
Residents retrieve an injured girl from the rubble of a collapsed building following an earthquake in the town of Jindires on February 6, 2023. Photo: AFP
At least 968 people were killed across Syria as the country struggles to uncover bodies from underneath the rubble following a massive earthquake that struck the region, its health ministry and a humanitarian group said.
The earthquake killed at least 538 people and injured 1,353 others in Syrian territories controlled by the government, the country’s health ministry said.
Elsewhere in regime-held areas, the White Helmets rescue group said that at least 430 people were killed and more than 1,050 injured while stressing that the toll could increase and calling for international aid to be delivered. Continue Reading
The earthquake killed at least 538 people and injured 1,353 others in Syrian territories controlled by the government, the country’s health ministry said.
Elsewhere in regime-held areas, the White Helmets rescue group said that at least 430 people were killed and more than 1,050 injured while stressing that the toll could increase and calling for international aid to be delivered. Continue Reading
18:47
Syria rejects aid from Israel after quake
Syria rejected Monday evening Israel’s help after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved a request to send aid to the quake-hit country, with Damascus denying it had requested any aid whatsoever.
Netanyahu earlier in the day said he had approved a request received through diplomatic channels to send aid to Syria, marking a rare instance of cooperation between the countries which have no formal relations in place.
Israel “received a request from a diplomatic source for humanitarian aid to Syria, and I approved it,” Netanyahu told lawmakers from his party, adding that the assistance will be delivered soon.
However, a Syrian official said the country “ridiculed and denied the allegations” of requesting aid from its enemy.
“How can Syria ask for help from an entity that has killed” Syrians “for decades?” the Syrian official said.
Relations are non-existent between the two countries as Syria considers Israel an enemy and does not recognize its sovereignty as a country, with the two countries having fought several wars in the past.
At least 815 people have been confirmed dead across Syria’s regime and rebel-held areas as a result of the deadly quake, according to the country’s health ministry reporting regime-held areas and the White Helmets aid group from the rebel-held northwest. Continue Reading
Netanyahu earlier in the day said he had approved a request received through diplomatic channels to send aid to Syria, marking a rare instance of cooperation between the countries which have no formal relations in place.
Israel “received a request from a diplomatic source for humanitarian aid to Syria, and I approved it,” Netanyahu told lawmakers from his party, adding that the assistance will be delivered soon.
However, a Syrian official said the country “ridiculed and denied the allegations” of requesting aid from its enemy.
“How can Syria ask for help from an entity that has killed” Syrians “for decades?” the Syrian official said.
Relations are non-existent between the two countries as Syria considers Israel an enemy and does not recognize its sovereignty as a country, with the two countries having fought several wars in the past.
At least 815 people have been confirmed dead across Syria’s regime and rebel-held areas as a result of the deadly quake, according to the country’s health ministry reporting regime-held areas and the White Helmets aid group from the rebel-held northwest. Continue Reading
18:17
Syria seeks international aid following quake
The Syrian government asked the international community Monday evening to come to its aid following a devastating earthquake that has killed more than 815 people across the country and over a thousand more northward in Turkey.
“Syria appeals to member states of the United Nations … the International Committee of the Red Cross and other humanitarian” groups to “support efforts to face the devastating earthquake,” the country’s foreign ministry stated. Continue Reading
“Syria appeals to member states of the United Nations … the International Committee of the Red Cross and other humanitarian” groups to “support efforts to face the devastating earthquake,” the country’s foreign ministry stated. Continue Reading
17:59
More than 815 dead in Syria after quake
Rescuers search through the rubble of a collapsed building for victims and survivors following a deadly earthquake that shook Syria at dawn on February 6, 2023 in Aleppo's Salaheddine district. Photo: AFP
At least 815 people have been confirmed dead across Syria’s regime and rebel-held areas, latest figures from the country said.
The earthquake killed 430 people and left 1,315 injured in Syrian territories under the control of the Syrian government, the health ministry reported.
In the rebel-held northwest, at least 385 people were killed and more than 1,000 were injured, according to the White Helmets humanitarian group. Continue Reading
The earthquake killed 430 people and left 1,315 injured in Syrian territories under the control of the Syrian government, the health ministry reported.
In the rebel-held northwest, at least 385 people were killed and more than 1,000 were injured, according to the White Helmets humanitarian group. Continue Reading
17:39
Turkey quake deaths rise to almost 1,500
Photo: AA
The death toll from the massive earthquake in Turkey has risen to 1,498, according to the latest tally from the country’s disaster agency.
At least 8,533 people have been wounded in the aftermath of the quake, the agency added. Continue Reading
At least 8,533 people have been wounded in the aftermath of the quake, the agency added. Continue Reading
17:24
UK to send 76 search, rescue specialists to Turkey
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly on Monday afternoon said that the UK is sending a team of 76 specialists and equipment to assist in the search and rescue process in Turkey.
“We stand ready to provide further support as needed,” he said.
Continue ReadingThe UK is sending immediate support to Türkiye including a team of 76 search & rescue specialists, equipment and rescue dogs.
— James Cleverly🇬🇧 (@JamesCleverly) February 6, 2023
In Syria, the UK-funded White Helmets have mobilised their resources to respond.
We stand ready to provide further support as needed.
16:56
Israel approves request to aid Syria
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has approved a request received through diplomatic channels to send aid to Syria, marking a rare instance of cooperation between the two countries which have no formal relations in place.
Netanyahu declined to provide further information regarding the source of the request but added that Israel would also send aid to Turkey.
16:51
Turkey death toll rises to 1,121: Disaster agency
Rescuers search for survivors through the rubble in Sanliurfa, on February 6, 2023, after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the country's south-east. Photo: AFP
The death toll from the deadly earthquake in southern Turkey has risen to 1,121, the country’s disaster agency announced in updated figures late Monday afternoon.
The agency added that 7,634 people have been wounded as a result of the two quakes that shook the country. Continue Reading
The agency added that 7,634 people have been wounded as a result of the two quakes that shook the country. Continue Reading
16:36
Biden ‘deeply saddened’ by Syria, Turkey earthquake
US President Joe Biden said he was “deeply saddened” by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, pledging US aid.
Continue ReadingI am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Turkiye and Syria. I have directed my team to continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkiye and provide any and all needed assistance.
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 6, 2023
16:28
Kurdistan Region halts oil exports to Turkey following quake
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) suspended oil exports to Turkey on Monday afternoon as a safety measure after a deadly earthquake rocked its northern neighbor and Syria before dawn.
“Due to the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria, in order to ensure the safety of oil exports and prevent any unwanted incidents, oil exports from the Kurdistan Region-Turkey pipeline have been suspended this morning,” the KRG ministry of natural resources said in a statement.
Around 450,000 barrels of oil are exported to Turkey from the Kurdistan Region and Kirkuk through the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline every day.
16:24
At least 783 dead across Syria
This aerial view shows residents helped by bulldozers, searching for victims and survivors in the rubble of collapsed buildings, following an earthquake in the town of Sarmada in the countryside of the northwestern Syrian Idlib province, early on February 6, 2023. Photo: Muhammad Haj Kadour/AFP
Syria’s health ministry raised the tally in the provinces of Aleppo, Latakia, Hama, and Tartus to 403 dead and 1,284 injured.
The White Helmets reported at least 380 people dead and 1,000 injured in rebel held areas.
15:42
At least 1,014 dead in Turkey: Disaster agency
Rescue workers and volunteers pull out a survivor from the rubble in Diyarbakir on February 6, 2023. Photo: Ilyas Akengin/AFP
At least 1,014 people were killed in the earthquake in Turkey, the country's disaster agency said on Monday afternoon.
The agency added that there are no threats of a tsunami in the Mediterranean following the two earthquakes that rocked the country.
15:28
Over 560 people killed in Syria
Syria's health ministry raises death toll to at least 371 people with 1,089 wounded.
The White Helmets rescue group said at least 221 were killed and 419 injured in rebel-held areas.
Continue ReadingDeath toll from #earthquake in NW #Syria now at 221+ with 419+ injured. Difficulty in rescue efforts as hundreds remain trapped under rubble & heavy equipment needed. Number expected to rise as hundreds of families still trapped. pic.twitter.com/Tt433BrzP6
— The White Helmets (@SyriaCivilDef) February 6, 2023
14:21
SDF commander extends condolences
Mazloum Abdi, general commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), extended his condolences to those affected by the deadly earthquake in Syria, saying they stand ready to provide help for the people of the country.
“We stand in solidarity with our people in all Syrian regions and are ready to extend a helping hand,” said Abdi in a tweet. Continue Reading
“We stand in solidarity with our people in all Syrian regions and are ready to extend a helping hand,” said Abdi in a tweet. Continue Reading
13:54
Another large-scale earthquake in Turkey's Kahramanmaras: AFAD
Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) said that another 7.6 magnitude earthquake has struck the city of Kahramanmaras south of Turkey at around 1:24PM local time.
The impact was also felt in the Kurdistan Region’s Erbil.
An earlier 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Kahramanmaras ripped through Syria and Turkey on Monday morning, killing over 1,200 people and injuring thousands other.
Continue Reading
The impact was also felt in the Kurdistan Region’s Erbil.
An earlier 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Kahramanmaras ripped through Syria and Turkey on Monday morning, killing over 1,200 people and injuring thousands other.
13:52
UAE ready to provide assistance to Syria, says president
Onlookers watch as rescue teams look for survivors under the rubble of a collapsed building in Syria’s Aleppo on February 6, 2023. Photo: AFP
United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan extended his condolences to the families of the victims in a phone call with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
The UAE president expressed his solidarity with Syria, adding that his country is ready to provide assistance to the Syrian people through this disaster, according to a statement from Assad’s office.
This is the latest indication of thawing ties between Syria and the UAE which supported the rebels at the start of the Syrian war in 2011.
Continue Reading
The UAE president expressed his solidarity with Syria, adding that his country is ready to provide assistance to the Syrian people through this disaster, according to a statement from Assad’s office.
This is the latest indication of thawing ties between Syria and the UAE which supported the rebels at the start of the Syrian war in 2011.
13:30
Death toll in Turkey rise to 912: Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaking from the AFAD headquarters in Ankara on February 6, 2023. Photo: AFP/screengrab
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the death toll had risen to 912, also raising the number of the wounded to 5,385.
Erdogan also mentioned that a total of 2,818 buildings have collapsed due to the quake, adding that a total of 2,470 people have been rescued from beneath the rubble.
"Contacts with our country have also started to be established for international aid. In addition to NATO and the EU, we received aid offers from 45 countries," said the Turkish president.
Continue Reading13:05
Syria death toll rises to at least 326
A man looks for survivors under the rubble of a collapsed building after an earthquake in the regime-controlled northern Syrian city of Aleppo on February 6, 2023. Photo: AFP
Syria death toll rises to at least 326 with around 1,042 people injured, according to the latest tally from the Syrian health ministry.
Continue Reading
13:01
Armenian Prime Minister says his country is ‘ready to provide assistance’
A man reacts as people search for survivors through the rubble in Diyarbakir, on February 6, 2023. Photo: Ilyas Akengin/AFP
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashniyan offered his condolences to Turkey and Syria, saying his country is ready to provide help in the aftermath of the earthquake that killed hundreds.
“Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” he tweeted.
Armenia and Turkey have no formal diplomatic relations and have a long history of hostility dating back to mass killing of Armenians under the Ottoman Empire during the First World War.
12:47
France offers emergency aid to Turkey, Syria
Rescue workers and volunteers carry a person rescued from the rubble in Diyarbakir on February 6, 2023. Photo: Ilyas Akengin/AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said France stands ready to provide emergency aid to the people of Turkey and Syria.
"We are receiving terrible images from Turkey and Syria following an earthquake of unprecedented force," he said.
French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna also extended her “sincere condolences” to her Turkish counterpart and the Turkish people.
12:37
World leaders express solidarity with Turkey, Syria
“Deeply saddened to hear this morning about the devastating earthquake hitting parts of Türkiye and Syria,” President of the European Council Charles Michel tweeted on Monday.
“The EU [European Union] stands in full solidarity with you,” he added.
“Europe stands with the people of Türkiye & Syria at this moment of distress,” President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola reaffirmed.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also offered support with Turkey, adding that he is in touch with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavugsoglu. “Allies are mobilizing support now,” he said.
12:07
Teams from the Netherlands, Romania on the way to Turkey: EU commissioner for crisis management
Rescue teams from the Netherlands and Romania are on their way to Turkey to provide assistance following the earthquake, the European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarcic, tweeted on Monday.
Continue ReadingIn the wake of the earthquake in #Turkey this morning, we have activated the #EUCivilProtectionMechanism.
— Janez Lenarčič (@JanezLenarcic) February 6, 2023
The EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre is coordinating the deployment of rescue teams from Europe.
Teams from the #Netherlands & #Romania are already on their way.
11:13
Zelensky says Ukraine is ready to help
Members of the Syrian civil defence, known as the White Helmets search for survivors under the rubble following an earthquake in the town of Zardana on February 6, 2023. Mohammed al-Rifai/AFP
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country is ready to provide help to Turkey in the aftermath of the deadly quake.
“We are ready to provide the necessary assistance to overcome the consequences of the disaster,” Zelensky tweeted in Turkish, extending his condolences and solidarity with the Turkish people.
10:53
US ready to provide assistance
A vehicle caught under the rubble of a building in Turkey destroyed by a massive earthquake on february 6th, 2023. Photo/Anadolu Agency
The White House also expressed its concern towards the incident, saying that Washington will continue to closely monitor the situation.
“We stand ready to provide any and all needed assistance,” read a statement from US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, adding “President [Joe] Biden has directed USAID and other federal government partners to assess U.S. response options to help those most affected.”
10:52
Kurdistan Region officials extend condolences
Kurdistan Region’s President Nechirvan Barzani extended his condolences to the families of the victims, also wishing a speedy recovery for the wounded
My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the earthquake that struck our region early morning. I extend my condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones, and wish a quick recovery to the wounded
— Nechirvan Barzani (@IKRPresident) February 6, 2023
Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region Masrour Barzani echoed similar thoughts, stating that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) “stands ready to help with rescue efforts.”
09:08
Disastrous earthquake kills over 23,700 in Turkey, Syria
An aerial picture shows rescuers searching the rubble of buildings for casualties and survivors in the village of Besnaya in Syria's rebel-held northwestern Idlib province at the border with Turkey following an earthquake, on February 7, 2023. Photo: Omar Haj Kadour/AFP
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Hundreds of people were killed and over a thousand others were wounded across Turkey and Syria as a result of a disastrous earthquake which also affected parts of Lebanon, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region.
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the city of Kahramanmaras in southern Turkey at around 4:17AM, followed by at least 42 aftershocks, according to the country’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD).
At least 284 people were killed and 2,323 wounded across Turkey due to the massive quake, which also destroyed at least 1,710 buildings.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended his best wishes to those affected by the earthquake, ensuring that all relevant authorities were “on alert” under the coordination of AFAD.
The earthquake was felt intensely in Syria as well, killing at least 237 and wounding an additional 648, reported the Syrian health ministry.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad held an emergency meeting on Monday morning to discuss the damage caused by the earthquake.