In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Afghanistan on August 31, 2025, India has dispatched a fresh consignment of humanitarian aid to the affected region, delivering essential relief materials via the Chabahar port. The aid reached Kabul on Thursday, September 25, 2025, and was handed over to Afghan authorities. This marks the third batch of aid sent by India to support Afghanistan's recovery efforts.

The recent earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 6.0, caused widespread devastation, claiming over 2,200 lives and displacing approximately 23,000 people. The disaster exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, which has been grappling with poverty and drought since the Taliban's return in 2021.

The latest consignment from India comprised three container loads of essential supplies, including food items, water purifiers, protein powder, tin sheets, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, water storage tanks, generator sets, family tents, blankets, essential medicines, and other medical supplies. These items are intended to provide immediate relief to those affected by the earthquake and support longer-term rebuilding initiatives.

India's commitment to assisting Afghanistan in this challenging time was underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed condolences for the loss of life and pledged "all possible humanitarian aid". The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also reaffirmed India's ongoing support, stating that the latest aid delivery is a continuation of its humanitarian assistance efforts.

The Chabahar port in Iran has played a crucial role in facilitating the delivery of aid to Afghanistan. This strategic port provides an alternative trade and transit route, bypassing Pakistan and enhancing regional connectivity for India. However, the United States' recent decision to revoke a 2018 sanctions waiver for the Chabahar port has introduced new challenges. The waiver, which is set to expire on September 29, 2025, had allowed India to operate at the port without facing US penalties under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act (IFCA).

Despite the looming expiration of the waiver and potential complications, India has proceeded with the aid shipment, signaling the importance it places on both the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and the strategic value of the Chabahar corridor. Sources within the Indian foreign ministry have confirmed that the implications of the US decision are under review.

India's previous assistance to Afghanistan following the earthquake includes an initial batch of relief materials sent on September 1, 2025, consisting of tents for 1,000 families. A subsequent shipment on September 2, 2025, contained hygiene kits and water purifiers, totaling approximately 21 tons of supplies.

The recent delivery of aid via Chabahar highlights India's continued dedication to providing support and assistance to the people of Afghanistan during this difficult period. This commitment reflects India's broader regional goals and its recognition of the strategic and humanitarian significance of the Chabahar port.