Key Takeaways:

• The Myanmar military has continued airstrikes despite a devastating earthquake that killed over 1,700 people.
• Anti-coup fighters have announced a two-week ceasefire to facilitate rescue operations in affected areas.
• Humanitarian aid efforts are hindered as military operations persist, raising concerns from the UN and human rights groups.

NAYPYIDAW: In a dire response to the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, causing at least 1,700 deaths and widespread destruction, anti-coup fighters have declared a two-week ceasefire. The People's Defence Force (PDF) announced it would pause offensive operations in earthquake-affected regions to assist with rescue efforts, as reported by the National Unity Government.

Despite the chaos, the military junta has reportedly intensified its airstrikes in both civilian areas and against armed groups in the wake of the earthquake. In one notable incident, seven fighters from the Danu People's Liberation Army were killed by an aerial attack soon after the earthquake, illustrating the junta's ongoing military ambitions amid the humanitarian crisis, according to South China Morning Post.

The damage from the earthquake is further complicated by the ongoing civil war since the military coup in February 2021. The Karen National Union, an ethnic armed group, condemned the junta for prioritizing military operations over emergency relief, highlighting the military's operation strategies which have starkly shifted focus from humanitarian needs. "The regime also continues to launch airstrikes, including in affected areas," stated Richard Horsey, a senior adviser at Crisis Group, as cited by an Reuters report.

The international community has responded, with some countries, such as the UK, pledging humanitarian aid amidst these challenging circumstances. The United Nations has expressed concerns over escalating humanitarian needs, with nearly 20 million people requiring aid pre-earthquake. The military's disregard for civilian safety—continuously conducting air strikes during a time of crisis—marks a severe and alarming tactic that has drawn criticism from global human rights organizations.

For more insights, read the full articles from: Channel News Asia, Newsweek, and The Jakarta Post.