CORRECTS - Türkiye extends condolences for earthquake victims in Afghanistan

CHANGES DAY IN LEDE, SECOND GRAF

By Necva Tastan

ISTANBUL (AA) - Türkiye expressed condolences Sunday for those killed in earthquakes in Herat province western Afghanistan.

It conveyed “sadness” for the more than 200 killed and over 1,000 injured in the magnitude 6.3 quake Saturday in Herat province, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry.

The ministry expressed condolences to the Afghan people, prayed for the souls of the deceased, and wished a swift recovery for the injured.

Türkiye reiterated its readiness to provide support to its Afghan brothers and sisters in their time of need.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), strong earthquakes of magnitude 5.5, 5.9, and 6.2 jolted the Afghan province. It said the epicenter was 40 kilometers (24.8 miles) northwest of Herat city.

Barat Muin, the Director of Herat State Hospital, reported that 215 people died and 500 were injured in the tremor.

Herat Governor Nur Ahmed Islamcar appealed for urgent international assistance for victims.