Texas, California, and Iran are probably three of the most different places in the world from each other. The cultures between the three are about as similar to each other as a cowboy hat, a burka, and a flat-brimmed snapback cap. However, tragedy will bring the unlikeliest of allies together. A reminder that compassion is not contained by borders.

The wildfires in California occur almost every year, and they are always devastating and cause a huge loss. This year has taken the devastation to a new level. The entirety of the Palisades, La Canada, and parts of the San Fernando Valley have burnt to the ground almost entirely, leaving behind nothing but ash and memories.

Now, despite a cultural divide that would make you think that the two states would rather blow each other up than lift each other up, Texas is stepping up to send firefighters and resources to help California battle the blazes.

Half way around the world comes an even more alikely hand in helping with the battle against the fires. Iran, who has a long history of firefighting in mountainous and desert terrain similar to Southern California, has said they are ready to send rescue aid to the U.S. amid the wildfires. Per the Iran International, the Red Crescent Society has announced that they are ready to dispatch rapid response teams to California in order to aid in the efforts to fight the fires around Los Angeles.

The fires are one of the most destructive and costliest natural disasters to have occurred in the United States, but it is a reminder that when tragedy happens there are people willing to put their differences aside in times of need.

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Gallery Credit: Danny Merrell

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