Myanmar’s military junta has rejected ceasefire proposals aimed at facilitating rescue efforts after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake. As the death toll climbs to 2,719, with 400 missing and over 4,000 injured, military operations continue despite calls from opposition groups to pause the conf
Myanmar’s ruling military junta has dismissed ceasefire proposals from opposition and ethnic armed groups, which were intended to allow humanitarian efforts following last week’s 7.7-magnitude earthquake, local media reported on Wednesday.
General Min Aung Hlaing, the junta leader, confirmed that military operations would proceed even as the earthquake death toll reached 2,719. Reports indicate that 400 people remain missing, and more than 4,000 have been injured, according to Myanmar Now.
The National Unity Government (NUG), Myanmar’s shadow administration formed by lawmakers ousted in the February 2021 coup, had declared a two-week ceasefire starting March 30. A similar proposal was made by ethnic armed groups, including the Arakan Army, Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, and Ta’ang National Liberation Army.
Although rebel groups had temporarily halted attacks after the disaster, Hlaing accused them of using the break to regroup and train fighters.
“While some ethnic armed groups are not currently engaging in combat, they are using this time to strengthen their forces for future attacks. As this poses a security threat, military operations will continue,” he stated at a fundraising event in Naypyidaw on Tuesday.
Myanmar remains embroiled in ongoing conflict since the 2021 coup, with the junta fighting various armed ethnic groups and pro-democracy forces, including the NUG’s military wing, the People’s Defense Force.
Read next
22:36
Ukraine-Russia War
President Vladimir Putin’s announcement of a temporary Easter ceasefire in Ukraine has drawn strong criticism from Kyiv, as Ukrainian leaders question the sincerity behind Moscow’s gesture amid continued hostilities and deep mistrust.
22:29
Ukraine-Russia War
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has denounced a Russian drone strike that occurred just hours after the start of a declared Easter truce, calling it proof of Vladimir Putin’s blatant disregard for both the holiday and human life.
21:45
Elon Musk
Elon Musk announced on Saturday that he plans to visit India later this year, following a discussion with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about potential collaboration in technology and innovation.
15:39
Mount Etna
Mount Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes, erupted once more early on Saturday, with ash and lava spewing from the southeastern crater. The eruption, which began late Friday night, continued through midday, local sources reported.
13:59
The Holy Fire
The Holy Fire ceremony stands as one of Christianity's most enduring and mysterious rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem each year.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment