The devastating earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan last weekend has now become the deadliest in the country in decades, with over 2,200 lives lost, the vast majority in Kunar province. As aftershocks continued to rattle the mountainous region and landslides blocked access routes, rescue efforts were painfully slow. Villagers in remote districts like Nurgal remained stranded without food, shelter, or medical aid for days—many still are. The Taliban government announced on Thursday that 3,640 people were injured, and the death toll may continue to rise as bodies are pulled from the rubble.
In the midst of this suffering, a fundamental question arises: Could the outcome have been different if a robust international presence had remained in the region? More specifically, what role could the U.S. military—once a major force in Afghanistan—have played in saving lives?
The Dual Role of the Military: War and Relief
It is a mistake to view the military as an institution solely designed for war. While its primary function may be defense and combat, the modern military machine is uniquely equipped to provide humanitarian aid in emergencies. It has personnel trained to operate under crisis conditions, a command structure that ensures rapid response, and an arsenal of resources: helicopters, transport planes, field hospitals, engineering units, and communication infrastructure.
Moreover, the military guarantees food, clothing, and shelter for its personnel—resources that, in times of disaster, can be redirected to help civilians. And unlike some militias or insurgent groups, national militaries are generally trained not to target civilians, but rather to protect them. In post-disaster scenarios, the military often emerges as the first responder, not the aggressor.
What If U.S. Troops Were Still in Afghanistan?
Had U.S. forces still been stationed in Afghanistan—especially in eastern regions like Kunar—their response to the earthquake would likely have been immediate. Helicopters could have been deployed within hours to reach isolated villages cut off by landslides. Mobile field hospitals could have begun treating the wounded on-site, easing the burden on overwhelmed local clinics. Engineers could have helped clear blocked roads, while convoys delivered emergency food and shelter to displaced families.
This isn’t speculation—it’s precedent. During past natural disasters in the region, U.S. forces often led or assisted in humanitarian missions, not just out of compassion, but also because supporting civilians strengthens regional stability and builds goodwill.
In a place like Mazar Dara, where families are now sharing pieces of tarp for shelter and fighting over scarce food, a coordinated U.S. military relief effort might have prevented chaos. Instead of relying solely on ad-hoc aid deliveries that spark desperation, a military-led distribution system could have ensured order, fairness, and efficiency.
A Humanitarian Role, Now Vacant
The Taliban government, despite efforts by some of its officials, lacks both the infrastructure and international trust to manage a disaster of this scale. Access to international aid is limited, and internal coordination remains weak. While some countries have flown in supplies, local logistics are failing, leaving people starving and untreated in the rubble of their homes.
This is precisely the kind of vacuum that a non-combat military presence could fill—an organized force with both logistical capacity and political neutrality in disaster response.
Conclusion: Reimagining Military Purpose
The tragedy unfolding in Kunar province underscores a broader truth: the military should not be seen solely through the lens of war. In an increasingly fragile world—marked by natural disasters, pandemics, and displacement—the ability to save lives swiftly and at scale is just as vital as the ability to defend borders.
If military power is to be justified, let it be justified not only by its capacity to destroy, but also by its potential to preserve. In Afghanistan, that opportunity has passed—but the lesson remains.
As rescue efforts continue in the rubble of Kunar, international actors must reflect on how to structure future military and humanitarian cooperation. Because when disaster strikes, the difference between life and death can be as simple as a helicopter, a hot meal, or a tent—and the will to act swiftly.
Afghanistan earthquake death toll tops 2,200, rescue efforts 'still ongoing
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