UAE Rallies to Afghanistan's Aid Following Devastating Earthquake in Eastern Region

In a swift humanitarian response, the United Arab Emirates has dispatched search and rescue teams and urgent aid to eastern Afghanistan after a catastrophic 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the region near the Pakistan border late August 31, 2025. This quake has resulted in over 800 deaths and injured approximately 2,800 people, with many still trapped under rubble in hard-to-reach mountainous areas.

Following directives from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE deployed specialized teams from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, the National Guard, and the Joint Operations Command to aid the rescue and relief efforts. Essential aid supplies comprising food, medical kits, and shelter tents were also sent to alleviate the suffering of the affected families and the injured.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and solidarity with the Afghan people, highlighting the nation’s long-standing commitment to international humanitarian missions. The rapid assistance reflects the UAE’s focus on fulfilling global responsibilities and reinforcing cooperation during disasters worldwide.

The earthquake struck near Jalalabad around midnight local time, predominantly affecting Kunar and neighboring provinces such as Nangarhar and Laghman. Villages were severely damaged, and access has been hampered by landslides and blocked roads, complicating relief operations. The Taliban government's spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, confirmed that the death toll and number of injuries are expected to rise as rescue teams continue their search efforts.

Humanitarian agencies have emphasized that the already devastating earthquake hits a nation facing severe challenges, including shrinking foreign aid post-2025, economic turmoil, and ongoing displacement crises. The U.N. and World Food Programme have scaled back assistance due to funding shortfalls, further complicating the disaster response.

In this critical situation, the UAE's intervention exemplifies decisive and substantial support aimed at mitigating the human toll of the disaster. The coordinated efforts between Emirati rescue services and aid organizations represent an urgent, lifeline response to an overwhelming crisis in Afghanistan’s eastern provinces.