What is Happening in Turkey That They Are Silent About: German and Austrian Rescuers Halt Operations in Disaster Zone

Emergency aid organizations from Germany have halted rescue operations in Turkey due to safety concerns. The reason is that gunfire and clashes have been reported in the earthquake disaster zone. According to Voice of America, the German ISAR International Search and Rescue Service and the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) have announced that they will resume their work when the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority of Turkey (AFAD) deems the situation safe.

“You can see that sorrow is slowly giving way to anger. That is why we will remain in the camp together with THW,” ISAR operational manager Steven Beyer told Reuters, adding that the organizations are prepared to resume operations immediately if necessary.

Turkish authorities have not reported on clashes in the earthquake zone, but President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan commented on the overall security situation on February 11, noting that a state of emergency has been declared and incidents of looting have been recorded. “This means that from now on, those connected with looting and abduction should know that the state’s strong hand is upon them,” Erdoğan stated during his visit to the region.

The Austrian Armed Forces' emergency response unit (AFDRU) has also temporarily ceased operations. Austrian Ministry of Defense representative Michael Bauer stated that the Turkish military has taken over the protection of the AFDRU personnel. About 82 rescuers from Austria have been in the city of Antakya since February 7, where they have rescued 9 people from the rubble.

Switzerland has also announced that it is closely monitoring the security situation in Hatay and that security measures have been intensified. Switzerland has sent 87 specialists and 8 rescue dogs. Since February 8, they have rescued 11 people, including 2 children. On February 10, Switzerland dispatched an additional mission of 12 rescuers.