Myanmar’s military junta has announced a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing civil conflict, aiming to facilitate humanitarian relief following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that has claimed over 3,000 lives. The ceasefire, which will last until April 22, was revealed on state television MRTV late Wednesday and is intended to express compassion for those impacted by the catastrophe that struck last Friday.
This military declaration follows similar announcements from armed resistance groups opposing the junta, which has been in power since a 2021 coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. These resistance forces have indicated they will reserve the right to fight in self-defence during the ceasefire period. The military warned that any attacks or regrouping by these groups would prompt a strong response.
Efforts to rescue survivors from the earthquake’s aftermath have seen some success; however, most teams are finding only casualties. Rescuers have successfully saved a few individuals from the rubble, including two men from a hotel in Naypyitaw, over 100 hours after the quake struck. The death toll reported by MRTV continues to rise, with local sources suggesting the number could be even higher than the official figures.
The earthquake has exacerbated an already critical humanitarian situation in Myanmar, where more than three million people were displaced due to the ongoing civil war, and nearly 20 million were in need of assistance even before the quake hit.
In response to the disaster, various countries have pledged aid to assist with the monumental recovery efforts. Notably, India and China have stepped up quickly, providing significant support alongside nations like Turkey, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia. The US has also committed $2 million in emergency aid but faces limitations due to cuts in foreign assistance.
As international teams mobilise to provide the necessary aid, the ongoing aftershocks pose challenges to rescue operations, particularly in areas like Mandalay, where electricity and running water are severely disrupted. The United Nations has highlighted urgent needs for medical supplies, clean drinking water, food, temporary shelters, and sanitation facilities to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks among the affected populations.
Analysts caution that while the ceasefire may temporarily ease hostilities, sustained diplomatic efforts will be crucial to transforming this humanitarian pause into a longer-lasting peace, a task that remains fraught with uncertainty.