Myanmar's military has officially declared a ceasefire from April 2 to April 22, following a devastating earthquake that has claimed nearly 3,000 lives. This announcement comes after rebel groups previously declared a unilateral ceasefire to expedite relief efforts. The magnitude-7.7 quake struck last Friday, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds missing, with the impact felt internationally across neighboring countries. Tensions remain high, particularly after military gunfire targeted a humanitarian convoy providing aid, causing further complications in the already tumultuous situation.
Temporary Ceasefire Announced in Myanmar Following Devastating Earthquake
Temporary Ceasefire Announced in Myanmar Following Devastating Earthquake
In a move to facilitate relief efforts, Myanmar's military has declared a temporary ceasefire amid a humanitarian crisis following last week's earthquake.
The ruling State Administration Council of Myanmar has stated that a temporary ceasefire will be in effect from April 2 to April 22, intended to accelerate relief and reconstruction in the wake of the catastrophic earthquake that struck last Friday. The decision to pause military activities comes after various rebel factions unilaterally announced their own ceasefires earlier this week, aiming to assist with relief operations. Official counts indicate that the earthquake has resulted in at least 2,886 fatalities, while hundreds are reported missing. The quake's reach has extended beyond Myanmar, with neighboring Thailand reporting 21 casualties.
Amidst the ongoing civil conflict since the military's seizure of power in a coup in 2021, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated alarmingly due to the recent natural disaster. Reports have emerged detailing a military confrontation with a convoy organized by the Chinese Red Cross carrying essential earthquake relief supplies; however, no injuries resulted from this incident. According to the Myanmar military, the convoy failed to stop when instructed, prompting agents to fire warning shots. In response, China's foreign ministry expressed concerns but noted that the safety of the rescue team remained intact, urging all factions in Myanmar to prioritize recovery efforts.
Adding to the complex dynamics, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which was escorting the aid convoy, insisted they had communicated their intentions to the military council prior to their mission in Mandalay. As the aftermath of the earthquake continues to unfold, international aid has been mobilized to assist those affected amidst ongoing struggles for humanitarian access in the conflict-ridden nation.
Amidst the ongoing civil conflict since the military's seizure of power in a coup in 2021, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated alarmingly due to the recent natural disaster. Reports have emerged detailing a military confrontation with a convoy organized by the Chinese Red Cross carrying essential earthquake relief supplies; however, no injuries resulted from this incident. According to the Myanmar military, the convoy failed to stop when instructed, prompting agents to fire warning shots. In response, China's foreign ministry expressed concerns but noted that the safety of the rescue team remained intact, urging all factions in Myanmar to prioritize recovery efforts.
Adding to the complex dynamics, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which was escorting the aid convoy, insisted they had communicated their intentions to the military council prior to their mission in Mandalay. As the aftermath of the earthquake continues to unfold, international aid has been mobilized to assist those affected amidst ongoing struggles for humanitarian access in the conflict-ridden nation.
