India's 'Op Amistad' Delivers Crucial Aid to Quake-Hit Venezuela

India swiftly initiated 'Operation Amistad,' a comprehensive Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) mission, to provide critical aid to Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes on June 24, 2026. The powerful quakes, measuring Mw 7.2 and Mw 7.5, struck north-central Venezuela in rapid succession, with epicenters near Yumare and Morón. These tremors were among the strongest experienced in Venezuela in over a century and caused widespread destruction across the country, particularly in the capital Caracas and the state of La Guaira, where an estimated 80% of buildings collapsed. In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, which saw the death toll rise rapidly—initially reported at 920 by June 26, climbing to 1,430 by June 28, 2,295 by July 5, and eventually reaching over 4,800 fatalities, 16,700 injuries, and tens of thousands missing by July 10—India acted with commendable speed. On June 26, 2026, just two days after the seismic events, India officially launched 'Operation Amistad.' The mission saw the immediate deployment of two Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster III heavy-lift transport aircraft. These aircraft embarked on a demanding 23-hour transcontinental flight, covering an aerial distance of over 14,000 km from Delhi to Caracas, the Venezuelan capital. The relief consignment totaled approximately 66 tonnes of humanitarian aid. This substantial package included a fully operational 41-member medical contingent from the Indian Army's 60 Para Field Hospital Unit, comprising experienced surgeons, anaesthesiologists, orthopaedic specialists, dentists, physicians, paramedical staff, and support personnel. Additionally, the aid comprised over 35 tonnes of relief supplies, six tonnes of essential medicines, and advanced medical equipment. A key component of the medical assistance was the inclusion of two BHISHM Cubes, which are state-of-the-art modular and portable mini-hospitals designed for rapid deployment in disaster-stricken areas. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the launch of the operation and subsequently confirmed the arrival of Indian assistance in Venezuela. He emphasized India's commitment to standing 'shoulder to shoulder' with the government and people of Venezuela during this difficult period. The Indian contingent worked in close coordination with Venezuelan authorities, providing emergency healthcare, conducting search and rescue operations, and delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance to affected communities. During their mission, the Indian medical team treated hundreds of earthquake-affected individuals, performed over 8,000 medical procedures and laboratory investigations, and conducted more than 20 major surgeries, offering crucial healthcare support in the devastated region. The humanitarian mission, a testament to India's growing role as a first responder in global disasters, received widespread appreciation. Acting President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez, publicly expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's timely assistance, support, and solidarity in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes. 'Operation Amistad' officially concluded on July 10, 2026, with the successful return of the Indian contingent to New Delhi, marking the end of a significant and impactful humanitarian effort that underscored the enduring friendship between India and Venezuela. The mission solidified India's reputation as a reliable humanitarian partner, capable of delivering hope across continents whenever called upon.

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