The Junta of Myanmar Declares a Ceasefire to Aid with Earthquake Relief Activities

With more than 2,800 people killed in the earthquake, the Myanmar military has announced a temporary truce in response to growing criticism. 

To aid rescue and restoration work after last week’s deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake, Myanmar’s military has declared a temporary ceasefire from April 2 to April 22.

The military had previously refused to match rebel groups’ unilateral ceasefire pronouncements, which the junta now respects. 

Hundreds are still missing, and at least 2,886 people have died as a result of the tragedy. Thailand has reported 21 fatalities as a result of the earthquake’s effects, which were felt throughout the region. 

Myanmar’s soldiers opened fire on a Chinese Red Cross convoy transporting earthquake help in Shan State on Tuesday evening. Troops reportedly used machine guns on the convoy when it was traveling to Mandalay, according to the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). According to the military, soldiers fired warning shots after the convoy allegedly failed to halt, although they denied deliberately targeting the cars. 

In addition to urging all parties in Myanmar to give humanitarian relief top priority, China’s foreign ministry confirmed that the rescue team and supplies were safe. 

After the tragedy, Myanmar’s humanitarian crisis has gotten worse, and international aid organizations are scrambling to help. However, rescue efforts are still in jeopardy due to tensions between the rebel groups and the junta.