Myanmar Junta Prioritizes Airstrikes Over Quake Relief

Despite the devastation caused by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, which has resulted in over 1,700 deaths, the military junta continues to conduct airstrikes against ethnic armed groups and civilian areas. The Karen National Union and other resistance groups accuse the junta of prioritizing military offensives over relief efforts during this humanitarian crisis. The National Unity Government, representing the ousted civilian administration, has announced a temporary pause in offensive operations to focus on disaster response. International and local entities, including the UN, have condemned the ongoing military actions, urging the junta to cease hostilities and assist in relief efforts. The earthquake has severely damaged infrastructure, complicating rescue operations, and there are fears that aid will not reach affected populations. Meanwhile, the junta has been criticized for utilizing airpower, with jets reportedly conducting attacks shortly after the earthquake struck.