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Myanmar Opposition Announces Ceasefire Following Earthquake
YANGON – In the wake of the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar, the National Unity Government (NUG), the country’s parallel administration, declared a unilateral two-week cessation of hostilities with the ruling military government on Sunday. This pause in fighting excludes “defensive actions,” according to the NUG’s announcement.
Ceasefire Details and Scope
The NUG communicated the “suspension of all offensive military operations” via social media platform X, specifying that it will be implemented in “earthquake-affected areas and related districts.” This action comes as international calls for de-escalation grow following the natural disaster.
Junta Accused of Continued Military Action
Despite the widespread devastation caused by the earthquake on Friday, reports from various media outlets indicate that the military junta continued its offensives against opposition forces in the immediate aftermath. Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur for Myanmar, has publicly urged the junta to halt all military operations, echoing calls for humanitarian access and focus on disaster relief.
Background of the Conflict
The NUG, formed after the military seized power in the 2021 coup, has been engaged in ongoing conflict with the junta. This ceasefire announcement marks a potential shift in dynamics amid the urgent need for earthquake recovery efforts.
Earthquake’s Devastating Impact
The earthquake has resulted in a grim toll, with the confirmed casualty count standing at 1,644 fatalities and over 3,400 individuals injured. Authorities warn that these numbers may significantly increase due to the proximity of densely populated areas to the earthquake’s epicenter and the structural fragility of numerous buildings in the affected regions.