Myanmar's Junta Continues Airstrikes Amidst Earthquake Tragedy
In a shocking display of disregard for human life, the military junta governing Myanmar has continued to conduct airstrikes on rebel-controlled areas despite the recent devastating earthquake that has claimed over 1,600 lives. The earthquake struck on Friday and Saturday, wreaking havoc across the region further exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis.
The BBC's Burmese division reported one notable attack on Naungcho in northern Myanmar, where seven individuals lost their lives. Rebels have also reported assaults around Changu, the Sagaing region's area closest to the earthquake's epicenter, and along the border with Thailand.
In response to the destruction brought on by the earthquake, the National Unity Government (NUG), representing the ousted civilian administration, announced a unilateral ceasefire effective from Sunday, lasting two weeks. This temporary halt to hostilities aims to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to those most affected, although the armed wing, the People's Defence Forces (PDF), will continue defensive operations to protect against junta aggressions.
It is important to note that the PDF is not the only group engaged in the fight against the military regime, and not all armed factions are under the NUG's command. This reality suggests that the proposed pause in fighting may not be as extensive as hoped, leaving many in vulnerable positions.
The crisis in Myanmar traces back to February 2021 when the military, bolstered by its control over the nation and using violent tactics, staged a coup and ousted the democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi and her party. Following this, a civil war ignited, with various groups striving to displace the junta and restore democratic governance. The uprisings that ensued were met with fierce military response, characterized by brutal airstrikes targeting civilian populations and dissenters alike.
In April 2023 alone, airstrikes resulted in the death of over 100 individuals, showcasing the junta's ruthless commitment to suppressing resistance. Despite its military capabilities, recent assessments indicate that the junta has lost substantial control, with less than a quarter of the country's territory under its command, while rebel forces control about 40 percent. The remainder remains contested, indicating a shift in power dynamics within the nation.
As rescue operations continue for those affected by the earthquake, the junta’s reported figures of over 1,600 deaths and more than 3,400 injuries may not reflect the full scale of the disaster, considering potential underreporting. There is growing concern that the junta might hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid in areas controlled by rebels, as has been the case in the past.
As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of the earthquake, the international community watches and calls for humanitarian access and accountability against the junta's aggression. The situation remains fluid as various factions navigate their responses amid the dual crises of natural disaster and civil unrest.
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