Morocco Declares 3 Days of National Mourning Following Devastating Earthquake

Morocco's royal palace announced on Saturday a period of national mourning lasting three days following a devastating earthquake that struck the region. Flags on all public buildings across the country will be flown at half-mast during this somber period, as the nation comes to terms with the aftermath of the disaster.

In an official statement released by the Moroccan news agency, MAP, it was confirmed that King Mohammed VI presided over a high-level meeting to address the calamitous event. During the meeting, the monarch emphasized the immediate need to provide accommodation, food, and essential necessities to those affected by the earthquake, with particular attention to be given to orphans and the most vulnerable members of society.

"The Sovereign also expressed the sincere thanks of the Kingdom of Morocco to all brotherly and friendly countries that expressed their solidarity with the Moroccan people in this situation, and many of those who expressed their readiness to provide aid in these extraordinary circumstances," the statement noted, highlighting the international response to the disaster.

In the wake of the earthquake, nations around the world extended their condolences and offered support to Morocco. The leaders of the European Union were among the first to express their sympathies to Morocco's King Mohammed VI. The European leaders expressed their solidarity with the Moroccan people during this difficult time, underlining the strong ties between Morocco and the European Union.

The earthquake, whose magnitude and exact impact are still being assessed, has left communities across Morocco reeling from the destruction. Efforts are now underway to assess the extent of the damage and provide essential aid to those in need.

As the nation enters this period of mourning, the Moroccan people are unified in their determination to rebuild and support one another in the face of this tragic event. International assistance and solidarity continue to pour in, promising hope for the recovery and reconstruction of the affected regions.