In light of the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar, the United Nations has issued a plea for international assistance as the death toll climbs to 3,354. A former USAID official revealed that a U.S. aid team was informed of their impending job loss shortly after arriving in the disaster-stricken area. State media reports that in addition to the fatalities, 4,850 individuals have been injured, and 220 remain missing.
During a visit to Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city located close to the quake’s epicenter, the United Nations aid chief, Tom Fletcher, emphasized the urgent need for support. “The level of destruction is overwhelming. Lives lost, homes destroyed, livelihoods shattered. Yet, the resilience displayed is truly remarkable. It is imperative for the global community to stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar,” Fletcher stated in a social media post.
Several countries, including China, India, and neighboring Southeast Asian nations, have dispatched relief supplies and rescue teams to assist in the recovery efforts within the quake-affected regions. While the United States had pledged a minimum of $9 million in aid, challenges arising from the restructuring of its foreign aid program have hindered its response, according to current and former officials.
Marcia Wong, a former senior USAID official, expressed dismay over the termination notice given to three aid workers actively engaged in humanitarian efforts in Myanmar. The U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has raised concerns about the junta’s obstruction of aid delivery to communities that have not shown support for its governance. Additionally, reports indicate ongoing attacks by the military, including air strikes, despite a ceasefire declaration.
The Free Burma Rangers, a humanitarian organization, reported that military bombings in Karenni and southern Shan states resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals after the ceasefire announcement. The group’s founder, David Eubank, highlighted the persistence of military assaults despite the declared truce, with at least seven incidents occurring post-ceasefire.
In related developments, Myanmar’s military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, reiterated the government’s commitment to organizing “free and fair” elections in December during discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi stressed the importance of upholding inclusivity and credibility in the electoral process, urging for a permanent ceasefire in the civil conflict post-earthquake.
Critics have cast doubt on the legitimacy of the upcoming elections, viewing them as a ploy to maintain military control through proxy candidates. Since seizing power from Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s administration in 2021, the military has faced challenges in governing Myanmar, resulting in a deteriorating economy and essential services, including healthcare.
The earthquake worsened the situation, leading to a civil war after the coup that has forced over 3 million people from their homes. The United Nations reports widespread food insecurity, with over a third of the population requiring humanitarian aid.
