Israeli Rescue Team Arrives in Venezuela to Aid Earthquake Victims

Five days after a severe earthquake struck Venezuela, an Israeli rescue delegation arrived to assist with search, rescue, and humanitarian aid efforts. The team, comprising members from Magen - Disaster and Emergency Management, the Ready for Rescue association, and the SmartAID organization, first landed in Valencia to receive operational equipment before moving directly to the disaster zones. There, they began working alongside local emergency forces conducting complex search and rescue operations, structural assessments of damaged buildings, and providing initial humanitarian support to affected residents.

The delegation reports extensive destruction at the affected sites, with many buildings collapsed or severely damaged and critical infrastructure impaired. Rescue efforts continue in multiple locations as teams strive to locate additional survivors trapped under rubble. Venezuelan authorities have reported approximately 1,500 fatalities, around 3,500 injuries of varying severity, and over 50,000 people missing due to the earthquake.

The Israeli team consists of 16 rescuers and professionals with expertise in emergency and disaster management. They plan to maintain their operational activities in the coming days, adapting their efforts based on the evolving needs of local forces and updated situation assessments.