Need to Continue Efforts to Help Quake Victims

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has urged Iranian officials to continue "practical" and "serious" efforts to help alleviate the suffering of those affected by a strong earthquake in western Iran. In a meeting with the heads of the three branches of government and other top officials on Tuesday, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed deep sorrow over the "very bitter incident" in Kermanshah Province, Press TV reported. The Leader praised the presence of Iranian officials in the areas hit by the quake and their expression of sympathy with the people. Ayatollah Khamenei stated that he shares the sorrow of the brave people of Kermanshah, noting that "it is extremely difficult to lose one's beloved people." The 7.3 magnitude quake rattled the border region between Iran and Iraq on Sunday night, causing extensive damage and loss of lives. According to the latest figures, the earthquake has killed at least 470 people and injured thousands. More than 12,000 homes have also been completely destroyed by the deadly quake.