In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, 2025, India has extended its support and solidarity to the Afghan people. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar spoke with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to convey condolences and offer assistance in this difficult time.

The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 6.0, hit near the border with Pakistan, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds dead and many more injured. The epicenter was located in the Kunar province, with the tremors felt in neighboring Nangarhar and Laghman provinces, as well as parts of Pakistan and India. The shallow depth of the earthquake, at just 8 kilometers (5 miles), exacerbated the damage, leading to the collapse of homes made of mud and wood.

According to the latest reports, the earthquake has claimed the lives of over 800 people and injured more than 2,500. The majority of casualties were reported in the Kunar province, specifically in the districts of Nurgal, Shokai, Watapur, Manogai, and Chapa Dara. The destruction has been immense, with entire villages reduced to rubble. Rescue operations are currently underway, but are being hampered by difficult terrain, landslides, and infrastructure damage.

In response to the tragedy, EAM Jaishankar expressed India's deep concern and pledged assistance to Afghanistan. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "The devastating earthquake in Kunar Province of Afghanistan is a matter of deep concern. Express our support and solidarity to the Afghan people as they respond to it. India will extend assistance in this hour of need. Our condolences to the families of the victims. And our prayers for early recovery of the injured".

As a first step, India has delivered 1,000 family tents to Kabul and is immediately moving 15 tonnes of food material from Kabul to Kunar. Further relief material is expected to follow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and pledged India's support for those affected by the earthquake.

Afghanistan is prone to earthquakes due to its location on several fault lines where the Indian and Eurasian plates meet. The country has a history of devastating earthquakes, including the recent earthquake in Herat province in October 2023, which killed over 1,400 people. The latest earthquake underscores the vulnerability of Afghanistan, a country already grappling with limited resources, economic sanctions, and reduced international aid. The international community has been called upon to provide assistance to Afghanistan in this hour of need.