Myanmar's military has officially announced a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief and reconstruction efforts following the recent earthquake that caused widespread destruction and loss of life, affecting thousands.
Temporary Ceasefire Announced in Myanmar to Accelerate Relief Efforts Following Earthquake
Temporary Ceasefire Announced in Myanmar to Accelerate Relief Efforts Following Earthquake
Myanmar's military issues a ceasefire amidst increased humanitarian crisis after a devastating earthquake.
The military's State Administration Council revealed that the ceasefire will be effective from April 2 to April 22. This announcement follows a unilateral ceasefire declared by rebel groups early this week, aimed at supporting relief operations, after the military initially refrained from making a similar declaration. Reports indicate that at least 2,886 fatalities have been confirmed due to the magnitude-7.7 earthquake that struck last Friday, with hundreds still unaccounted for. The quake's tremors were felt in neighboring countries like Thailand, where the death toll has reached 21.
Amid ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar, marked by the junta's rule since the 2021 coup, tensions have escalated. Recently, police opened fire at a Chinese Red Cross convoy delivering earthquake aid, an encounter in eastern Shan State that resulted in no injuries but highlighted safety concerns for humanitarian missions. The military claims the attack was a misunderstanding, saying that troops only fired warning shots when the convoy did not heed signals to halt.
The Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the safety of its rescue team and supplies, urging all factions in Myanmar to prioritize disaster relief. As humanitarian needs grow, reports suggest the real number of casualties may far exceed official figures, prompting multiple international aid agencies and governments to dispatch resources to affected regions. The Ta'ang National Liberation Army, which was accompanying the Red Cross convoy, stated they had previously informed the military council of their intended route to Mandalay.
In the wake of the earthquake, Myanmar's humanitarian crisis deepens, with survivors struggling amidst the rubble of what was once their homes and lives.
Amid ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar, marked by the junta's rule since the 2021 coup, tensions have escalated. Recently, police opened fire at a Chinese Red Cross convoy delivering earthquake aid, an encounter in eastern Shan State that resulted in no injuries but highlighted safety concerns for humanitarian missions. The military claims the attack was a misunderstanding, saying that troops only fired warning shots when the convoy did not heed signals to halt.
The Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the safety of its rescue team and supplies, urging all factions in Myanmar to prioritize disaster relief. As humanitarian needs grow, reports suggest the real number of casualties may far exceed official figures, prompting multiple international aid agencies and governments to dispatch resources to affected regions. The Ta'ang National Liberation Army, which was accompanying the Red Cross convoy, stated they had previously informed the military council of their intended route to Mandalay.
In the wake of the earthquake, Myanmar's humanitarian crisis deepens, with survivors struggling amidst the rubble of what was once their homes and lives.
