Iran Accepts Japan Quake Aid, Declines U.S.

The aftermath of the quake in the village of Dahouyeh 24 February 2005 -- Iran is reported to have accepted at least $180,000 worth of blankets, tents and other aid from Japan to help survivors cope with the aftermath of the 6.4-magnitude earthquake in southeastern Iran.

Iranian authorities had earlier said they expected to handle quake relief without international support.

A Reuters news agency report quoted U.S. and Iranian officials as saying Iran has declined an offer of quake aid from the United States.

Interior Minister Abdolvahed Moussavi Lari said the toll could rise to 550 from the 22 February quake, which reduced sections of villages in Kerman province to rubble.

(Reuters/AP)


Related stories:
Quake Highlights Iran's Difficulties In Handling Civil-Affairs Emergencies
Iran Recovers From Quake