Myanmar's ongoing conflict is showing no signs of slowing down, even in the wake of a devastating earthquake that struck on March 28. Just hours after the deadly tremor rocked the country, killing over 1,600 people, Myanmar’s military junta resumed its bombing campaign on rebel groups. The attack in the Naungcho region, close to the earthquake’s epicenter, left seven people dead.
This continued violence has raised concerns among international groups, who fear that the military could block aid from reaching the areas most affected by the quake and the ongoing conflict. For nearly four years, Myanmar’s junta has been accused of preventing aid from reaching pro-democracy resistance groups, and the fear is that this pattern will continue as the country grapples with both war and disaster.
The earthquake, clocking a 7.7 magnitude, caused widespread destruction across Myanmar. Buildings crumbled in the Sagaing region, where the quake hit hardest, and damages were reported in cities like Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. The tremors were so strong that they were felt in neighbouring countries, including Thailand, China, and India. While the military junta claims 1,644 deaths, many fear that the toll could rise as more people are trapped under the rubble.
Despite the earthquake’s widespread devastation, Myanmar’s military is carrying on with its aggressive military operations. Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews told BBC it was "nothing short of incredible" that the military is continuing to bomb areas while rescue efforts are underway. He urged the international community to step up and pressure the military to halt its operations. "Anyone with influence needs to make it clear that this is not acceptable," he said.
The situation in Myanmar has been dire for years, especially after the military coup in 2021 that overthrew the civilian government. Protests erupted across the country, with citizens demanding the restoration of democracy. Since then, large parts of the country, including the Sagaing region, have been controlled by pro-democracy resistance groups who are now facing both the deadly earthquake and the junta's violent crackdown.
In response to the crisis, countries like the US, India, and China have pledged aid, but questions remain about whether it will reach those who need it most. The military’s ongoing blockade have increased the challenges of delivering aid in the midst of war.
