Myanmar Military Declares Ceasefire as Earthquake Death Toll Exceeds 3,000

Myanmar's military has declared a temporary ceasefire in its ongoing civil war to facilitate relief efforts following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that has resulted in over 3,000 deaths. The ceasefire, effective until April 22, was announced on state television and aims to support those affected by the disaster. This move comes after similar ceasefires were declared by armed resistance groups opposing military rule, though the military warned that any attacks would prompt a response. As rescue efforts continue, with some individuals being pulled alive from the rubble days after the quake, the overall humanitarian crisis in Myanmar has worsened, impacting millions who were already displaced and in need. Local reports suggest that the death toll may be even higher than officially stated. The earthquake has compounded existing challenges stemming from the ongoing civil conflict, which has left nearly 20 million people in need of assistance, according to the United Nations.