Afghanistan, a nation situated across three geological fault lines, continually faces the threat of earthquakes.
Recent seismic activity near the city of Jalalabad has resulted in more than 800 deaths and marks the third major earthquake in as many years.
The inhabitants of this impoverished country are vulnerable in numerous ways.
The aftermath of the quake in Mazar Dara, Kunar province, Afghanistan. Pic: AP
The impact of foreign aid cuts
Following the Taliban’s rise to power in 2021, the international community has withdrawn significant financial support, which previously constituted the bulk of government spending in Afghanistan.
Humanitarian aid, which typically bypasses government institutions, has also seen substantial shrinkage – from $3.8bn (£2.8bn) in 2022 to $767m (£566.6m) this year.
The US government, through its international development arm USAID, provided 45% of all assistance granted to Afghanistan last year – but the Trump administration has slashed those sums.
The UK, along with France, Germany, Sweden, and others have also made deep cuts to humanitarian aid.
As a result, hundreds of hospitals and local health clinics in the country have been forced to close this year, leading to the loss of related medical posts.
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Afghan quake kills 800 people
This crisis unfolds as the country struggles to accommodate millions of individuals who fled due to the Taliban’s rise to power. Over two million have returned this year, with Pakistan and Iran implementing measures to facilitate their return.
Upon arrival, they find a nation where more than half the population requires immediate humanitarian assistance, as per the UN – with millions facing acute food insecurity.
Large regions of northern Afghanistan have endured prolonged drought.
A disaster intensifying in a nation that ranks among the poorest – and most desperate – on Earth.
