Colombia limits foreign rescue teams as earthquake survival window narrows

Colombia has begun accepting international aid and rescuers in the aftermath of Monday's devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake. However, the country's hold on foreign rescue teams has raised questions about its new government's handling of the crisis. The delay is the first controversy of President Abelardo de la Espriella's administration, which took office on Friday.

With the 72-hour critical window for rescuing survivors under the rubble closing, the Colombian government is now working to establish an official channel to coordinate international assistance. Experts suggest that the lack of a smooth transition and personnel change may have contributed to the delays. Despite initial resistance, multiple countries, including Mexico, China, Peru, the United States, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Israel, have pledged support, though Colombia has requested aid from only four specific countries due to perceived international and national certifications.