The death toll from the devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday has risen to 235, with over 4,300 people injured and more than 39,000 still missing, according to Venezuelan authorities. Rescue teams continue to pull survivors from the rubble even as fears grow that the final numbers could be much higher.

The powerful quakes hit on a national holiday, when many were indoors watching football matches. The worst-affected region is the northern coastal state of La Guaira, where over 100 buildings have collapsed and more than 70,000 families have been impacted. Local media reported voices still being heard from under debris, giving faint hope amid the destruction.

In a swift show of solidarity, India has launched ‘Operation Amistad’ to support the earthquake-hit nation. Two Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft have been dispatched carrying an Indian Army field hospital unit and more than 35 tonnes of relief supplies. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India stands with the Venezuelan people and is committed to providing all possible assistance during this crisis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez and conveyed India’s support. The move comes as several countries rush aid and rescue teams to the South American nation.

International response has been fast. Rescue teams from El Salvador, Switzerland, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador, and others have reached Venezuela. The United States has sent warships, aircraft, and announced $150 million in aid, while also temporarily easing some sanctions to facilitate relief. China, Brazil, Türkiye, and Spain are among those sending personnel, equipment, and supplies. The UN has released emergency funds and mobilised search teams, with UNICEF highlighting the urgent needs of thousands of affected children.

On the ground, the situation remains grim. Many residents spent the night in open parks and streets, afraid to return to damaged buildings due to strong aftershocks. Internet disruptions have further complicated rescue and coordination efforts. In La Guaira, families have been seen digging through rubble with bare hands in desperate attempts to find loved ones.

Authorities have declared a state of emergency. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has been visiting affected areas, including Macuto, to meet survivors. The government is increasing emergency personnel in the worst-hit zones.

The earthquakes have struck at a difficult time for Venezuela, already grappling with political and economic challenges. Experts warn the disaster could exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. The US Geological Survey has indicated a significant probability that the toll could rise further.

Several foreign nationals are among the dead and missing, including citizens from Spain, Brazil, China, Italy, and Portugal. Spain alone has confirmed two deaths with around 80 nationals still unaccounted for. Starlink has offered free satellite internet for a month to help restore connectivity in the affected regions.

Rescue operations are expected to intensify in the coming days with more international teams arriving. Voices of hope persist as one woman was pulled alive from rubble more than 24 hours after the quakes. However, with many buildings reduced to rubble, the coming hours and days will be critical.

India’s Operation Amistad reflects the country’s growing role in global humanitarian efforts. The supplies and medical team are expected to bolster on-ground medical care and relief distribution in the coming days.

As Venezuela battles one of its worst natural disasters in recent history, the focus remains on saving as many lives as possible. Further updates on the rescue efforts and rising casualty figures are awaited as the situation continues to evolve.