Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil visited the field hospital set up by India under Operation Amistad on July 4, 2026, and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the medical assistance provided to victims of the June 24 earthquake.
Field Hospital Treats 400 Patients Daily
During his visit to the hospital located at the Hipódromo de Caracas, Gil stated that Indian medical experts are treating nearly 400 people every day. The facility offers a wide range of services including care for fractures, hematomas, dental treatment, X-rays, and minor surgeries. Rescuers injured during operations are also receiving care.
Gil was accompanied by Indian Ambassador P.K. Ashok Babu and Julio Leon, President of the National Hippodrome Institute, which provided logistical support for the hospital's installation.
Brotherhood in Action
Gil described the operation as a "sample of brotherhood" between India and Venezuela, noting that Acting President Delcy Rodriguez had recently visited India. "This is the brotherhood of peoples, serving the Venezuelan people, accompanying us in this moment of grief," he said. He requested Ambassador Babu to convey Venezuela's love and gratitude to the Indian government, the armed forces personnel, doctors, nurses, and paramedics working tirelessly around the clock.
WHO Reports Widespread Devastation
World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reported that the earthquake has left over 2,300 dead, more than 5,000 injured, and nearly 16,000 homeless. As search and rescue operations transition to recovery, the death toll is expected to rise. WHO is coordinating Emergency Medical Teams on the ground and has delivered over six metric tons of emergency medical supplies, with an additional 28 metric tons en route. The organization has also released $1.5 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies. Tedros warned that the disaster compounds an already severe humanitarian crisis, placing greater strain on the health system.
Comprehensive Care for All
Gil emphasized that the field hospital provides comprehensive care, including to those affected by the seismic events. He assured Venezuelans that Acting President Rodriguez is coordinating all operations and that Venezuela is not alone in this crisis.
