The UK will deploy emergency response teams to Türkiye to assist in rescue efforts. The Government is deploying a team of experts to help on the ground in Türkiye following the 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said: ”The UK is sending immediate support to Türkiye including a team of 76 search & rescue specialists, equipment, and rescue dogs. In Syria, the UK-funded White Helmets have mobilized their resources to respond. We stand ready to provide further support as needed”.
A flight is expected to depart the UK at 4 pm and arrive at around 9 pm local time in Gaziantep.
Jill Morris, British Ambassador-Designate to Türkiye, said: ”The British Embassy in Ankara is in close contact with the Turkish authorities to understand how we can best support those on the ground. Our thoughts are with all those affected by the earthquakes. We pay tribute to the brave Turkish first responders working to save lives”.
The UK is providing support that the Turkish government has asked for. The UK International Search and Rescue team has specialist search equipment including seismic listening devices, concrete cutting and breaking equipment, and propping and shoring tools.
In northwest Syria, the UK-aid-funded White Helmets have activated a significant search and rescue response and mobilized all their resources to respond to emerging needs. The Government is in contact with British humanitarian workers in the affected areas and stands ready to provide support to any British nationals affected.