Myanmar Military Announces Ceasefire for Earthquake Relief

The announcement, made on state-run MRTV late Wednesday, stated that hostilities would halt until April 22 as a humanitarian gesture for those affected by Friday's quake. The military's move follows similar ceasefire declarations by opposition groups. However, it warned that any attacks or regrouping efforts from resistance forces would lead to "necessary" actions, while opposition groups emphasized their right to self-defense.

Rescue Efforts Continue On Wednesday, rescue teams rescued four survivors from the rubble in Naypyitaw and Mandalay, though most efforts have involved recovering bodies. The earthquake struck on Friday, causing widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, bridges, and roads. By Wednesday, MRTV reported 3,003 deaths and over 4,500 injuries, but local sources believe the toll could be higher.

Even before the earthquake, Myanmar was grappling with a humanitarian crisis due to the ongoing civil war, with over 3 million displaced and nearly 20 million people in need of aid, according to the UN.

International Aid and Diplomacy The ceasefire announcement came amid growing international pressure, particularly after the People’s Defense Force and the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic rebel groups declared their own temporary halts in fighting. Analysts remain cautious, noting that substantial diplomatic efforts would be necessary to achieve lasting peace.

The timing of the ceasefire coincides with an upcoming visit by Myanmar’s military chief, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, to a regional conference in Thailand, marking his first international trip outside Myanmar’s allies—China, Russia, and Belarus—since 2021.

Alleged Attack on Red Cross Convoy Before the ceasefire, an opposition militia accused the military of firing on a Chinese Red Cross convoy delivering aid to Mandalay. The military claimed the convoy had not informed authorities of its route. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is investigating the incident.

Global Response and Aid Efforts Countries worldwide have pledged financial and logistical support. India and China have been particularly active in sending aid, while nations including Turkey, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia have dispatched rescue teams and medical assistance. The U.S. has committed $2 million in emergency aid, with a three-person team assessing further support. However, aftershocks continue to disrupt relief efforts, leaving many without power, clean water, or medical supplies.

Widespread Devastation Significant damage has been reported in Mandalay and Naypyitaw, though many regions remain inaccessible due to destroyed infrastructure. In Singu township, 27 gold miners were killed in a landslide triggered by the quake, while several homes in Inle Lake collapsed, causing more fatalities. As rescue operations continue, the full extent of the disaster remains unclear.