Venezuela — Venezuela’s powerful Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello is facing sharp international criticism after videos emerged showing him berating and allegedly obstructing American rescue teams working in the aftermath of last week’s devastating twin earthquakes.

Cabello, who is wanted by the United States, was seen confronting rescue personnel as the death toll from the disaster surged above 1,700. As the catastrophe entered its fifth day, Venezuelan authorities reported over 5,000 people injured and approximately 23,000 impacted by the powerful tremors.

The images from the disaster zone show rescue workers, including heavily equipped search and rescue teams, sifting through massive piles of rubble in search of survivors. Despite the urgent humanitarian needs, tensions reportedly escalated when Cabello intervened at the scene.

Critics have labeled Cabello a “thug” for what they describe as unnecessary interference during a critical phase of the rescue operation. The confrontation has drawn condemnation from international observers who argue that political posturing should not hinder life-saving efforts.

The twin earthquakes have caused widespread destruction across parts of Venezuela, leaving thousands homeless and overwhelming local emergency services. International aid teams, including those from the United States, have been deployed to assist with search and rescue operations.

Diosdado Cabello, a key figure in the Venezuelan government and longtime ally of President Nicolás Maduro, remains a controversial and polarizing figure. His actions during the crisis have further strained relations with the international community at a time when cooperation is desperately needed.

As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on locating survivors and providing humanitarian assistance to those affected. The rising death toll and large number of injured have turned this into one of the most significant natural disasters to strike Venezuela in recent years.

Further updates on the rescue operation and the political fallout are expected in the coming days.