The official death toll from the massive earthquake that struck Myanmar has climbed to 3,354, according to state media reports on Saturday. Thousands more have been injured or displaced as emergency teams continue rescue and relief efforts in the affected regions.
UN Aid Chief Visits Quake Zone, Praises Relief Workers
UN aid chief Tom Fletcher arrived in Mandalay, one of the hardest-hit cities near the earthquake’s epicenter. During his visit, he expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction but praised the ongoing humanitarian efforts.
“The UN is here to help – the world must rally behind the people of Myanmar,” Fletcher wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
In Mandalay #Myanmar meeting communities at epicentre of earthquake.
The destruction is staggering. Lives lost. Homes destroyed. Livelihoods shattered. But the resilience is incredible.
The UN is here to help – the world must rally behind the people of Myanmar. pic.twitter.com/oL6HtUjrVF
— Tom Fletcher (@UNReliefChief) April 5, 2025
Junta Accused of Blocking Aid to Opposition Areas
While global aid has started arriving, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights raised serious concerns on Friday. According to the UN, Myanmar’s military junta is restricting humanitarian assistance to areas that oppose its rule, preventing help from reaching many vulnerable communities.
Rescue Teams from Around the World Join Effort
Rescue and relief missions from countries including China, Russia, India, and several other Asian and Western nations are working together to support Myanmar during this crisis. The United States, typically one of the first to respond in natural disasters, sent its aid team on Friday after initial delays.
Junta Leader Returns from Regional Summit
Meanwhile, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar’s military ruler, returned to the country after attending a summit in Bangkok, Thailand. During the meeting, he held discussions with leaders from India, Thailand, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
Since taking power in a military coup in 2021, the junta has been internationally isolated. Min Aung Hlaing is currently facing global sanctions, and the International Criminal Court (ICC) is reportedly seeking an arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity, particularly against the Rohingya Muslim minority.
Ceasefire Declared After Ongoing Bombings
Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake, the military continued its bombing campaign until Wednesday, just days after the disaster. A ceasefire was then announced, which is set to last until April 22, following similar steps taken by rebel groups to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.
Talk of Elections Raises Doubts
During the summit, Min Aung Hlaing informed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the junta would conduct “free and fair elections” in December 2025. However, many observers remain skeptical, given the junta’s history of violence and repression since taking power.
A Nation in Crisis
As Myanmar grapples with the twin crises of natural disaster and political conflict, the need for unhindered humanitarian assistance and international support is more urgent than ever. Relief agencies continue to urge all parties to prioritize saving lives over political control.
