Statements from humanitarian organisations:
International Rescue Committee:
"The IRC is deeply concerned for tens of thousands who have been directly affected by a powerful 7.8 earthquake that has hit Turkiye and neighboring countries. Striking in the early hours of this morning, with its epicenter in southern Turkiye, shockwaves were sent across northern Syria and parts of Lebanon, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
Freezing temperatures have left thousands exposed to extreme cold, and now many are without shelter. With buildings collapsing as people slept, there are fears that hundreds still remain trapped in rubble across southern Turkiye and inside war-torn Syria."
World Vision:
"World Vision is working rapidly to assess potential impacts to already displaced children and communities in the wake of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake which struck in the early hours of Monday morning, sending tremors across the region. The earthquake hit a wide area in south-eastern Türkiye and Northern Syria, killing more than 100 people and trapping many others. Reports of new deaths and injuries are being confirmed on the hour. "
Action for Humanity:
“We are sad to confirm a member of the Action For Humanity team has lost her life, as has her child. She was a doctor who was motivated with saving the lives of people impacted by the crisis in Syria. Sadly, she has lost her life. If she hadn’t she would be there now trying to help as many people as possible, just like the rest of her colleagues.
“With the death toll in the hundreds and rising, and countless injured - we are launching a full scale emergency campaign to help support those displaced and injured, as well as the health systems and infrastructure everyone needs. With so many people displaced and the winter weather deteriorating, we are in a race against time to help people."