Fighting continues in Myanmar, despite a temporary ceasefire between the government army and rebel groups. The ceasefire was announced to allow aid to reach earthquake victims.
Myanmar’s military has been fighting rebel groups since it seized power from the government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. The conflict escalated after a massive earthquake hit the country on March 28, 2023.
The United Nations says the military has attacked rebel forces at least 14 times since the ceasefire was announced on April 2. Both sides blame each other for starting the fighting.
A spokesman for the Myanmar military, Lt-Gen Zaw Min Tun, says they will respond if their bases are attacked without reason.
Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is calling for all parties to stop fighting and focus on helping those affected by the earthquake. He wants to ensure that humanitarian organizations can reach affected areas without being blocked.
The earthquake has killed over 3,600 people, injured more than 5,000, and left 160 missing. The UN says aid operations are making progress in accessible areas, but have been hindered by heavy rain.
Many of those affected are in need of food, water, shelter, and energy. The situation is dire, and the international community is urging all parties to prioritize humanitarian aid.
Source: BBC
