The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday has claimed at least 1,644 lives and left 2,376 injured, according to the country’s ruling military junta. The 7.7-magnitude quake caused widespread destruction, prompting Myanmar’s main resistance movement to declare a temporary ceasefire to aid rescue operations.
Partial Ceasefire Declared to Support Relief Efforts
In response to the disaster, the National Unity Government (NUG), a shadow government opposing the military regime, announced a unilateral partial ceasefire in the earthquake-affected regions. The NUG’s armed wing, the People’s Defence Force (PDF), stated that it would halt offensive operations from Sunday to allow humanitarian efforts to proceed.
The NUG, which has been engaged in an ongoing struggle against the military junta since the coup in 2021, emphasized the importance of prioritizing rescue and recovery operations. “Our people are suffering immensely, and we must focus on saving lives and providing assistance to those in need,” an NUG spokesperson said in a statement.
Widespread Destruction and Humanitarian Crisis
The earthquake, one of the strongest to hit Myanmar in recent years, caused severe damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. Hard-hit areas remain difficult to access, slowing rescue efforts. Many survivors are in desperate need of food, water, and medical assistance.
International organizations and neighboring countries have expressed concern over the unfolding humanitarian crisis, offering aid and support. However, Myanmar’s complex political situation and restrictions imposed by the military junta may pose challenges for relief operations.
Uncertainty Over Military Junta’s Response
The military government has yet to respond to the NUG’s ceasefire announcement. The junta has been engaged in violent clashes with opposition forces for years, and it remains unclear whether they will reciprocate the ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts.
As rescue teams work against the clock to find survivors, humanitarian groups have urged all parties to set aside their differences and focus on aiding those affected by the disaster. With the death toll expected to rise, international observers stress the need for immediate and coordinated action to mitigate the impact of the catastrophe.
