International condolences for the Afghanistan earthquake in November have poured in from global leaders and aid bodies after a 6.3-magnitude quake killed at least 20 people and injured over 600 near Mazar-i-Sharif on 3 November 2025. The disaster hit Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces before dawn, destroying homes and threatening the historic Blue Mosque. Rescue efforts continue amid fears the toll will rise.
Global Sympathies for Afghan Quake Victims in Mazar-i-Sharif
The earthquake struck at 00:59 local time, its epicentre in Samangan province, 50 kilometres south of Mazar-i-Sharif. Local authorities report 20 confirmed deaths and 639 injuries, with the World Health Organisation estimating up to 945 wounded. Many homes collapsed, leaving families exposed in the winter chill. The Taliban government activated emergency teams to distribute tents, food and medical supplies.
Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, stated: “All relevant officials and institutions of the Islamic Emirate have been instructed to deliver medical, food, and other necessary assistance to the affected areas, rescue those trapped under debris, and take the necessary steps to support the affected families.”
Rescue operations focus on rubble in densely populated areas. The United Nations warns of secondary risks like aftershocks and cold weather complicating relief. Afghan officials urge international partners to expedite aid delivery.
World Leaders Express Sorrow for Northern Afghanistan Quake
International condolences for the Afghanistan earthquake in November dominated diplomatic channels on Monday. Neighbouring countries led the response, underscoring regional ties.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif posted: “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in northern Afghanistan after the deadly earthquake near Mazar-e-Sharif. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. Pakistan stands in solidarity with our Afghan brothers and sisters in this difficult hour.” Islamabad dispatched medical teams and tents within hours.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar telephoned Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to convey sympathies. “External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar expressed his condolences over the loss of lives caused by the recent earthquake in Afghanistan’s northern provinces and assured relief assistance,” the Ministry of External Affairs reported. New Delhi airlifted 20 tonnes of food aid, including rice and blankets, arriving in Kabul by midday.
The United Arab Emirates issued a formal statement of solidarity. “In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the people of Afghanistan in this ordeal,” the UAE Ministry noted, pledging humanitarian support.
Iran’s Red Crescent Society chief, Pirhossein Kolivand, offered condolences and readiness to assist. “Iran’s Red Crescent Society chief offered condolences to Afghanistan after the deadly 6.3-magnitude earthquake and announced readiness to provide relief aid,” the society announced. Tehran assessed damage for targeted help.
Japan’s Ambassador Kenji Matsumoto extended Tokyo’s sympathies and support readiness. The Iranian Embassy in Kabul echoed grief: “The earthquake in northern Afghanistan, centred in Samangan province, which caused loss of life and property among the honourable people of Afghanistan, brought us great sorrow.”
Former Afghan leaders joined the chorus. Hamid Karzai wrote on X: “I express my deepest condolences for the loss of life and property caused by the earthquake in Balkh, Samangan, and other provinces of the country.” Abdullah Abdullah shared: “While expressing our condolences, we share the grief of the affected families and sincerely call on relief agencies and capable citizens to act quickly in providing assistance.”
Zalmay Khalilzad, ex-US envoy, noted: “I am saddened by the earthquake in Northern Afghanistan affecting Balkh and Samangan provinces and adjacent areas. Many people have lost their lives and many more have been injured.”
UN and Aid Agencies Mobilise Amid Global Sympathies
United Nations agencies activated rapid response protocols. The World Health Organisation deployed rescue teams and emergency medical kits to Mazar-i-Sharif hospitals. “A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan near Mazar-e-Sharif at around 00:59 local time on 3 November 2025, causing significant casualties and damage,” the WHO situation report detailed.
UNICEF Representative Tajudeen Oyewale expressed condolences: “Tajudeen Oyewale, the UNICEF Representative in Afghanistan, has expressed condolences to the families of victims affected by the recent earthquake.” The agency prioritises child protection in shelters.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation appealed for urgent support. “OIC Appeals for Urgent Support for Northern Afghanistan Earthquake Victims,” the body urged, calling on members to fund recovery.
The European Union and Norwegian Refugee Council confirmed operations. UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warned the death toll may climb as searches continue under debris.
Why This Matters for South Asia
The quake exacerbates Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, straining resources in a nation recovering from decades of conflict. For South Asia, it highlights shared vulnerabilities to seismic activity along the Hindu Kush. Neighbours like Pakistan and India, both prone to quakes, view the event as a call for enhanced cross-border cooperation. Aid flows bolster diplomatic ties, potentially easing tensions over refugees and trade. Regional stability hinges on swift recovery, as displacement could spill into Pakistan’s border provinces. Experts note that without sustained support, the disaster risks deepening poverty and unrest, affecting migration patterns across the subcontinent.
Political analyst Fazl Manullah Mumtaz observed: “Afghanistan is not alone in this tragedy; such events occur in many countries. It is important for nations in the region and neighbouring countries to take an active humanitarian role.” University professor Sayed Masoud added: “Afghanistan is indeed a country exposed to natural disasters, earthquakes, floods, and other hazards and we must be prepared for such events.”
Damage assessments reveal impacts on cultural sites. Reports indicate cracks in the Blue Mosque, a UNESCO tentative list gem drawing pilgrims. Restoration could require international expertise, fostering cultural exchanges in South Asia.
Economic fallout looms. The quake disrupted local markets in Mazar-i-Sharif, a trade hub linking Central Asia to South Asia. Rebuilding homes and infrastructure may cost millions, with calls for grants from the Asian Development Bank.
Background
Afghanistan sits on active fault lines, experiencing frequent tremors. A 6.3-magnitude event in August 2021 killed over 1,000 in Paktika province. The November 2025 quake follows that pattern, hitting a populous area with limited modern buildings. Taliban rule since 2021 has isolated Afghanistan from some aid, but this disaster prompted rare outreach. Global sympathies reflect a thaw in relations, as seen in India’s direct engagement.
What’s Next
Relief coordinators anticipate aftershocks through the week. Aid convoys head north, but access roads damaged by landslides pose challenges. International donors convene virtually on Tuesday to pledge funds. Long-term, seismic monitoring upgrades could prevent future losses. International condolences for the Afghanistan earthquake in November will translate into action if pledges materialise swiftly.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, November 4th, 2025
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