Powerful Quakes Rock Venezuela, Killing at Least 32 and Triggering Israeli Aid Preparations

Venezuela was hit on Thursday by two major earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, less than a minute apart, causing widespread destruction in the country’s north. At least 32 people were killed and about 700 were injured, and officials warned the toll could rise as rescue work continued.

The worst damage was reported in Caracas and in La Guaira, near the capital, which authorities declared a disaster zone. Videos circulating on social media showed buildings swaying violently and collapsing within seconds, residents fleeing into the streets, thick clouds of dust rising from collapse sites, and civilians trying to pull people out before rescuers arrived.

According to local reports, residential buildings, hotels, and public infrastructure were heavily damaged, and thousands of people were left homeless. Emergency crews are searching for survivors under the rubble, hospitals are under severe strain, and aftershocks are still being felt. Authorities urged residents not to enter damaged structures until engineering inspections are completed.

Foreign aid preparations are already under way in several countries, including medical supplies and specialized rescue teams. Israel’s Foreign Ministry said that, under Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s instruction, it is preparing immediately for a possible Israeli aid delegation to Venezuela and is holding a situation assessment with relevant bodies in Israel while reviewing assistance options.