Israel is gearing up to send rescuers and aid to Morocco as the death toll from the country’s largest ever earthquake passed 2,000.
More than 300,000 people have been affected by the 6.8 magnitude shock that destroyed buildings in Marrakech and across the Atlas Mountain region.
A statement released by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had instructed "all ministries and forces" to provide any assistance necessary.
He added: “The people of Israel extend their hands to our friends, the people of Morocco, at this difficult time and pray for their well-being. We will help in any way we can.”
In a statement released Saturday, Magen David Adom said rescuers were mobilising to depart from Israel within hours alongside delegations from Israel’s Ministry of Health and the IDF.
Writing to the president of the Moroccan Red Crescent, MDA Director General Eli Bin offered medical and humanitarian aid to those affected by the earthquake.
He wrote: "We are deeply concerned about the current situation. Our thoughts are with you, especially those who have suffered losses.
“We trust the expertise, commitment, and capabilities of the Red Crescent to play a pivotal role in the humanitarian efforts…
“Be assured of the bond of friendship between us, and view this letter as a genuine offer to assist in any manner you find appropriate."
Israeli assistance is currently on hold, however, as Moroccan officials are yet to formally respond to the offer of help.
Channel 12 reported that the north African nation’s government is currently unsure exactly what aid they require.
morocco earthquake
Volunteers recover a body from the rubble of collapsed houses in Tafeghaghte two days after a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the country (Photo: Fadel Senna/AFP)
Israel’s Foreign Ministry said Saturday night that it had accounted for all 479 Israeli citizens in Morocco, and there were no reports of any casualties among them, the Times of Israel reported.
As of Sunday morning, at least 2,012 people have been killed and more than 2,000 injured, Morocco's government said.
In Marrakech, many people slept outside overnight in fear of aftershocks.
Morocco will now observe three days of national mourning with flags at half-staff on all public facilities.
The nation's king, Mohammed VI, chaired an emergency disaster response meeting on Saturday, following which Moroccan armed forces have been searching through rubble in the hope of discovering any survivors still alive.
Also on Saturday, Israel’s defence minister Yoav Gallant spoke with his Moroccan counterpart Abdellatif Loudiyi.
In a statement, Gallant said: “A significant part of the Abraham Accords is our commitment to stand by our partners during national crises. The State of Israel is prepared to assist the Kingdom of Morocco during this difficult time.”
The private IsrAid humanitarian aid agency has also offered Rabat assistance to supply emergency equipment and water technology, Ynet reported.
In Marrakesh, the city's historic Jewish quarter and two synagogues have been left in ruin.
Speaking to AFP, resident Hafida Sahraouia said: “It’s as if it was hit by a bomb.”
Al Fassayn Synagogue is said to have suffered "significant damage", while the Slat al-Azama Synagogue is reportedly partially damaged.
The latter shul was founded by Sephardic jews who fled Spain in 1492.
On Friday night at 11.11pm, a giant 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit around 70 kilometres south-west of Marrakesh.
The current death toll means it has been the most deadly quake to hit Morocco since 1960.
