Colombia earthquake rescue delayed as foreign help was initially refused: Here's what happened

Colombia has received international rescue teams and aid following its refusal or restriction of certain foreign assistance offers after a devastating earthquake hit western Colombia killing hundreds and leaving many others missing.

The 7.4-magnitude earthquake occurred on Monday, August 10, destroyed multiple structures and injured and displaced thousands. Rescue workers are currently working within time-sensitive parameters to locate and free people buried beneath debris.

This has created concern about the decision-making process regarding the initial refusal of acceptance of international rescue teams during the critical 72-hour period following the disaster.

Offers for assistance came quickly from countries across the Americas but Colombian authorities rejected access to some foreign search-and-rescue teams stating they had sufficient personnel to complete the necessary tasks and that they did not want unqualified teams assisting.

Concerns arose as it became increasingly difficult to locate people alive under collapsed structures due to increased time elapsed. Colombian authorities have now authorized entry into the country for international rescue teams from US, El Salvadore, Israel and Ecuador.

Personnel from various countries, including Mexico and Peru, will join other rescue teams to assist in their search.

The massive earthquake has put great strain upon the recently-formed government of President Abelardo De La Espriella who began his term just prior to this disaster. He has established an emergency response effort and stated he would provide a rebuilding fund to support construction costs associated with damaged residential dwellings, hospitals, schools, etc.

Despite this obstacle, rescuers continue to discover survivors in the wreckage; one such discovery was made in Cali when a baby was discovered alive inside a collapsed structure. A miraculous event occurred in an otherwise bleak environment and provided a glimmer of hope for families searching for loved ones.

At least 265 deaths have resulted from the disaster, approximately 500 individuals are missing and more than 150 aftershocks have taken place creating an extremely hazardous environment for all rescue team members.