QtrendsVenezuela was hit by twin powerful earthquakes of magnitudes 7.5 and 7.2, killing at least 32 people and injuring 700, with widespread devastation across Caracas. The disaster compounds Venezuela's severe economic crisis, as international aid pledges begin to arrive. In the US, President Trump clashed with Republican senators over Iran policy during a heated lunch, prompting the Senate GOP to reverse course on a rebuke of Trump over a potential Iran war. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned that ships taking alternative routes through the Strait of Hormuz would face danger, escalating tensions around the vital oil shipping channel.
Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude in rapid succession, causing widespread destruction across Caracas. At least 32 people have been confirmed dead and over 700 injured, with rescue operations ongoing. Buildings collapsed across the capital as residents fled into the streets in panic. International aid pledges have begun pouring in from neighboring countries and global organizations.
The twin earthquakes deliver a devastating blow to Venezuela's already crippled economy, which has been suffering from hyperinflation, sanctions, and oil production declines. The destruction of infrastructure, including buildings and roads in Caracas, will require billions in reconstruction. Many Venezuelans, already struggling with shortages of food and medicine, now face displacement and loss of homes. Survivors recount harrowing moments of panic as buildings shook violently around them.
The first earthquake, a magnitude 7.5 event, struck near Caracas on Tuesday evening, followed hours later by a 7.2 magnitude aftershock. The dual quakes are among the strongest to hit Venezuela in decades. Rescue teams are racing against time to find survivors trapped under rubble. Damage assessments indicate thousands of structures have been affected, with hospitals overwhelmed by the injured.
President Trump engaged in a heated shouting match with Republican senators during a White House lunch over Iran policy, prompting the Senate GOP to reverse its position on a resolution rebuking Trump's authority to take military action against Iran. The confrontation highlighted deepening divisions within the Republican party over foreign policy approach. The original rebuke was withdrawn as Senate Republicans fell in line behind the president after his outburst.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has warned that any ships attempting to use alternative routes through the Strait of Hormuz would be in danger, as an oil tanker successfully navigated the strategic waterway despite prior threats. The escalation comes after President Trump threatened new tolls on shipping through the strait. The confrontation raises concerns about disruption to global oil supplies, as about 20% of the world's petroleum passes through this chokepoint.