Rescue hopes waning as Turkiye-Syria earthquake death toll climbs 34,000

ANKARA – Rescue efforts continue a week after catastrophic earthquakes hit Turkiye and Syria where the death toll now surpassed 34,000, while hope of finding survivors is waning despite some unbelievable rescues.

Thousands died in one of the deadliest natural disasters, and millions were left homeless amid extremely harsh weather. In the quake-hit regions, operations were conducted as heavy machinery removed tons of rubble produced by collapsed buildings.

After imposing an emergency, Turkish officials started detaining contractors whom officials believe are responsible for the poor construction of structures that were snapped in a short time.

Meanwhile, many international rescuers stopped operations citing concerns over security. German rescue operations in southeast Turkiye were halted over the weekend. As other rescuers paused their rescue efforts, the Turkish ministry of defence said the army had stepped in to offer protection.

Anonymous Pakistani donates $30 million for Turkiye-Syria earthquake victims in US

Meanwhile, humanitarian groups warned that quake-hit nations will require donations for an extended period of time, after the rescue and recovery missions end.

Hundreds of injured are still languishing in medical facilities and shelters without their families and homes in heartbreaking scenes after massive devastation.