Myanmar Military Declares Temporary Ceasefire as Earthquake Death Toll Exceeds 3,000
Myanmar’s ruling military has announced a unilateral and temporary ceasefire in the country’s ongoing civil war to aid rescue and relief operations following last week’s devastating earthquake. State television broadcaster MRTV reported that the death toll from the disaster has now exceeded 3,000.
The ceasefire, set to last from Wednesday until April 22, is intended to facilitate humanitarian efforts in affected areas. The military stated that suspending hostilities would allow rescue teams to reach survivors, deliver aid, and assist those displaced by the quake.
The powerful earthquake caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, severing communication lines, and leaving thousands in urgent need of medical attention, food, and shelter. Aid organizations and local volunteers have been struggling to navigate conflict zones, where clashes between military forces and resistance groups have hindered relief operations.
Despite the declared truce, skepticism remains among opposition groups and international observers, given past instances where ceasefires were either short-lived or not fully observed. Humanitarian agencies have called for unrestricted access to affected regions to ensure critical aid reaches those in need.
As rescue operations continue, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both sides to prioritize humanitarian efforts over conflict.