The text deplores the deaths caused by the incident as casualty toll continues to surge as rescue efforts progress.

‘My heart goes out to the people of Türkiye and Syria in this hour of tragedy. I offer my deepest condolences to the victims´ relatives, wishing injured people their speedy recovery,’ Guterres added.

According to the statement, UN teams are on the ground assessing needs and providing medical assistance.

We are counting on the international community to aid thousands of families affected by the life-threatening earthquake, many of whom were already in great need of humanitarian aid.

The earthquake claimed nearly 1,000 lives in Turkey and over 500 in Syria.

Turkish authorities have counted at least 11,119 injured in 10 affected provinces, however figures could rise in coming hours due to the high number of people still trapped under rubble.

Syrian government, on the other hand, approved an emergency action plan to assist the victims.

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