India has launched ‘Operation Amistad’ to support earthquake-hit Venezuela, dispatching two Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft carrying a field hospital unit and emergency medical supplies, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced on Friday.
“Operation Amistad underway! Two C-17s took off today for Venezuela with urgent assistance to support their post-earthquake relief efforts,” Jaishankar said in a post on X. He added that the assistance includes an Indian Army Field Hospital Unit and over 35 tonnes of relief supplies, medicines and medical equipment, including two BHISHM Cubes compact units designed to provide rapid emergency medical support in disaster situations. “India is committed to support the Government and people of Venezuela in this difficult time,” he said.
The operation follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s offer of assistance a day earlier. “Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the severe earthquakes in Venezuela. On behalf of the people of India, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially to the families who have lost their loved ones. We pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and stand in solidarity with all those affected during this difficult time. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance,” Modi posted on social media.
Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez welcomed the gesture. “We warmly welcome the remarks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed his condolences and the Republic of India’s willingness to support relief efforts in the wake of the severe consequences of the earthquakes that struck our country,” she said. She added that the gesture reflected longstanding ties between the two nations: “The solidarity expressed by India is in keeping with the spirit of cooperation between our peoples in times of difficulty.”
Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, seconds apart on Wednesday evening near Yaracuy state, west of Caracas. The disaster has killed at least 235 people and injured more than 4,300, according to figures from Venezuela’s Health Ministry. Rescue teams continue to search for survivors trapped under rubble in La Guaira and parts of the capital, with many buildings collapsed and critical infrastructure damaged.
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India’s contribution forms part of a wider international relief effort. The United States has pledged $150 million in aid, while Mexico has deployed rescue and medical personnel. Italy has also offered support, with Rome saying it is working to activate humanitarian aid channels for the South American nation.
