The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has intensified its humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, deploying three military aircraft carrying over 105 tonnes of food aid on September 7 in response to a powerful earthquake that struck the eastern provinces. The airlift was organized under the directives of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and reflects the UAE’s strategy of rapid emergency support for disaster-stricken regions.
The aid, which includes essential food supplies, was dispatched as part of a broader relief initiative coordinated by the Joint Operations Command of the UAE Ministry of Defence. The shipments are part of an integrated air and sea bridge designed to deliver continuous humanitarian support to communities affected by the earthquake. The operation underscores the UAE’s commitment to international disaster relief and its close ties with Afghanistan.
The earthquake, which struck remote areas near the border with Pakistan, caused widespread destruction in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. Initial assessments from humanitarian agencies estimate that thousands have been injured, and the number of fatalities continues to rise as rescue teams reach more isolated communities. Many of the affected areas remain accessible only by foot or helicopter, slowing the delivery of assistance and evacuation efforts.
This latest airlift follows earlier UAE deployments of search and rescue teams drawn from Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, the National Guard, and Joint Operations Command units. These teams have been working in coordination with Afghan authorities and international relief organizations to locate survivors, provide emergency care, and assess damage. Medical supplies, temporary shelters, and basic necessities have also been part of the broader aid package.
UAE expands emergency airlift operations to Afghanistan
The Afghan Air Force has been operating in parallel with international partners, conducting over 180 air missions in recent days. These flights have helped evacuate more than 2,000 people from severely impacted regions and have delivered more than 23 tonnes of relief supplies to field hospitals and aid centers. However, logistical challenges and infrastructure damage have complicated distribution efforts, particularly in mountainous areas.
The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations have issued urgent calls for sustained international assistance. The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that its supplies in Afghanistan will last only a few more weeks, emphasizing the need for continued support to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions. Thousands remain in temporary shelters with limited access to clean water, food, and medical care.
UAE maintains momentum in disaster relief coordination
In addition to the UAE’s aid, several countries have responded with humanitarian assistance. The European Union sent 130 tonnes of aid and pledged financial support, while Ireland, Iran, India, and others have delivered supplies or pledged funds. Despite these efforts, on-the-ground challenges persist due to blocked roads, damaged infrastructure, and the scale of the disaster.
The UAE’s strategic and rapid deployment of resources places it among the leading contributors to the emergency response. With plans underway to send additional humanitarian shipments by sea, the UAE is reinforcing its role as a key partner in global relief operations. The continued flow of aid, medical support, and evacuation missions is critical to stabilizing the situation in Afghanistan and supporting the long-term recovery of affected communities. – By Content Syndication Services.