Myanmar Military Declares Temporary Ceasefire for Earthquake Relief

Myanmar’s ruling military announced a temporary ceasefire on Wednesday to facilitate disaster relief following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that has killed over 3,000 people.

The truce, effective until April 22, was broadcast on state-run MRTV, which stated the pause in hostilities was intended to "show sympathy for the victims" and ensure "effective rescue operations and rehabilitation." The move comes after armed resistance groups opposing military rule had already declared unilateral ceasefires.

Rising Death Toll

The death toll from Friday’s earthquake has climbed to 3,003, with 4,639 injured and 373 still missing, according to state media. Neighboring Thailand reported 22 fatalities, along with widespread structural damage and 72 people unaccounted for.

The military warned that resistance groups must refrain from attacks or regrouping during the ceasefire, or else it would take "necessary measures." The announcement follows earlier truces declared by the People’s Defense Force—the armed wing of the opposition’s shadow government—and the Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition of ethnic rebel armies.

Relief Efforts Complicated by Conflict

Delivering aid in Myanmar’s war-torn regions has proven difficult. On Tuesday, military troops fired warning shots at a Chinese Red Cross convoy that failed to stop while traveling through a conflict zone. Authorities claimed the group had not notified them of its presence in the area.

China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed its rescue team and supplies were unharmed. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged all parties in Myanmar to prioritize relief efforts, ensuring "the safety of rescue personnel and supplies from China and other countries." He stressed the need to keep aid routes "open and unobstructed."

The United Nations estimates more than 28 million people across six regions were affected by the quake. It has allocated $12 million in emergency funding for food, shelter, medical care, and other critical services.