Earthquake in Myanmar: Chaos and fighting endanger rescue operations!

Earthquake in Myanmar: Chaos and fighting endanger rescue operations!

On April 2, 2025, a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar, particularly the Sagaing region. So far, more than 2,700 people have died and at least 440 are missing. Many residents spend the night outside because their houses are uninhabitable. As rescue efforts begin, authorities report chaotic conditions and a lack of information about the situation on the ground. Vol.at speaks of refugees who have to live under extreme conditions.

The military junta that has ruled Myanmar since 2021 has appealed for international help during this humanitarian crisis. At the same time, however, relief operations are under extreme pressure from the ongoing civil war between the junta and various resistance groups. These conflicts have further isolated areas in urgent need of support and jeopardized aid operations. fr.de reports that the military has continued airstrikes on civilians in Chaung-U District despite the dire circumstances.

Relief efforts and international support

The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed the safety of a rescue team operating in the disaster area. However, a Chinese Red Cross aid convoy was stopped by the junta with warning shots for failing to follow an order. This highlights the tensions between the junta and the aid teams. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has stressed that transport routes must remain open for rescue work. dw.com highlights that a rescue team from China has already arrived with emergency aid worth 14 million euros.

Numerous other international rescue teams from countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, New Zealand, India, Japan, Singapore and Russia are also in action. Despite all this support, there are concerns that aid money may not go to victims because the junta controls distribution. Independent activists warn that many people in Sagaing still have no access to relief supplies.

Political classification and humanitarian challenges

The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is extremely tense due to the civil war. Before the earthquake, 3.5 million people in Myanmar had already been displaced due to the conflict. Aid organizations report that the ongoing fighting is significantly hampering rescue and relief operations. Despite a month-long ceasefire announced by resistance groups, the junta has rejected it and continued its offensive military actions. Vol.at mentions that the Australian government and Amnesty International criticize the junta for its continued attacks during this humanitarian crisis.

The development of the situation in Myanmar remains uncertain as the junta, despite challenges, appeals for international support while continuing its military operations. The people in the earthquake areas hope that their situation will soon improve, which is not only characterized by natural disasters but also by a catastrophic political environment.