Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises to Nearly 3,000 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Nearly two weeks after powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, the official death toll has risen to 2,954, with tens of thousands still reported missing. Local authorities continue rescue operations amid challenging conditions, as many victims come from low socioeconomic backgrounds and identification of bodies is difficult due to advanced decomposition and limited forensic resources. A local forensic pathologist described the situation in La Guaira as overwhelming, noting that families often bring the bodies of their loved ones themselves because emergency services cannot keep up with the pace of recovery. Identification is frequently done through tattoos, dental records, or clothing, as DNA testing is prohibitively expensive.

The earthquakes primarily affected the central states of Aragua, Miranda, and La Guaira, with over 16,000 injured and more than 6,400 people rescued so far. In response to the disaster, Israel sent a specialized aid delegation praised by Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, who highlighted their high level of training and professionalism. The Israeli team has begun assessing infrastructure damage and implementing protocols for recovery, leveraging connections facilitated by the Venezuelan Jewish community.

Rodríguez emphasized the delegation's advanced capabilities to detect survivors or casualties beneath rubble before reconstruction begins. She expressed hope for continued progress in the recovery phase. Baruch Nidam, head of ZAKA's international division, stated that their teams operate worldwide to assist in disaster zones, working alongside local emergency services with a commitment to saving lives regardless of religion or nationality.