Iraq expresses solidarity with Venezuela after deadly earthquakes

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed solidarity Thursday with Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes that struck the South American country, killing at least 164 people, injuring more than 970 others and causing widespread destruction.

In a statement, the ministry said Iraq “expresses its profound solidarity and sincere condolences with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela” after the twin earthquakes, which it said resulted in deaths, injuries and extensive material damage in the affected areas.

The ministry said Iraq shares “the feelings of grief” of the Venezuelan government and people and reaffirmed its support for the country as it responds to the disaster.

The Iraqi statement came a day after a rare seismic doublet struck northern Venezuela. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 7.2 earthquake followed 39 seconds later by a magnitude 7.5 quake, with the epicenter near the Caribbean coast west of Caracas. Venezuelan authorities declared a state of emergency as rescue crews searched for survivors in collapsed buildings and damaged neighborhoods. At least 164 people were reported killed and 971 injured, with officials warning the death toll could rise as recovery operations continue.

The Foreign Ministry also extended “its deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families and relatives of the victims,” while wishing those injured a speedy recovery.