On August 31, 2025, Afghanistan was hit hard by a 5.2 magnitude earthquake. Many families lost their homes, and businesses were destroyed. Now more than ever, food shortages are at an all-time low. More than 2,000 people lost their lives, and the death toll is still rising. Due to the severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and mudslides, rescue aid is having a difficult time reaching everyone in the mountains, where most people have been affected. It was reported that when the earthquake struck, many people ran outside in fear of being trapped inside.
However, their aid has been cut ever since the Taliban took control of the country in 2021, creating laws and harsh punishments for anyone who breaks them. Many aid groups are hesitant to help a regime known for the persecution of women and young girls. Earlier this year, the White House halted its $1.7 billion in aid to the country, as well as to France, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Humanitarian aid has gone down significantly from $3.8 billion in 2022 to $767 million in 2025. This is due to the challenges the country is facing, which makes it so difficult to get help in time like this. On top of that, the country was already facing challenges like a malnutrition crisis affecting almost 10 million people, and still supporting aid to a community impacted by an earthquake earlier in the year. These challenges are stretching their resources thin. It has reached a point where the Taliban is asking for help. They have asked for aid relief, but very few countries have stepped up to help. The United Arab Emirates has given food, medical aid, and tents to those who have lost their home. European leaders have donated $1.6 million to help with humanitarian aid. As of now, we know that the death rate is increasing and the need for support is growing. Afghanistan only has so many resources that it can provide to its people. It is still unclear how many people were affected in total, but we know that the number is increasing by the day.
Below is a link to donate to Afghanistan: