International rescue operations are intensifying in Venezuela after twin earthquakes killed at least 235 people, with the United Nations confirming the deployment of search and rescue teams from at least 17 countries.
The UN humanitarian agency said more than 1,000 rescue personnel are expected to be involved in the ongoing response as efforts focus on locating survivors within the critical first 72-hour window, which experts describe as crucial for saving lives after major earthquakes.
According to the agency, emergency teams are working across affected regions to pull survivors from collapsed structures, provide trauma care, and support overwhelmed local responders.
The World Health Organization has warned that the death toll is likely to rise as search operations progress, noting that many victims may still be trapped under rubble in hard-hit areas.
Rescue operations are also focusing on restoring emergency healthcare services, with assessments underway on damaged hospitals and primary health facilities. Temporary medical centres are being set up to treat injured survivors, many of whom are suffering from fractures, crush injuries, and shock. Authorities say communication networks and road access have been severely disrupted in several communities, complicating relief efforts and slowing the movement of heavy rescue equipment.
The earthquakes, which struck in quick succession, have left widespread destruction across residential and commercial districts, flattening buildings and displacing thousands of residents now sheltering in temporary camps.
Humanitarian agencies have urged for urgent international support, warning that time is running out for those still trapped beneath debris as rescue teams race against the 72-hour survival threshold.
