Myanmar’s military has launched airstrikes on towns in the Karen state, near its headquarters, despite a devastating earthquake that has killed over 1,700 people. The junta has been criticized for prioritizing its own forces over relief efforts.
The Karen National Union, an armed resistance movement against the Myanmar military, accused the regime of “continuing to carry out airstrikes targeting civilian areas” as the population suffers from the earthquake.
Under normal circumstances, the military would be focused on providing aid and support. Instead, it is deploying forces to attack its people. A spokesman for the junta did not respond to queries about the criticism.
The opposition National Unity Government has called for a two-week ceasefire in military action to focus on relief efforts. However, some anti-junta forces have halted their offensives, while fighting continues elsewhere.
Richard Horsey, senior adviser at Crisis Group, said the regime’s lack of support is evident. “Local fire brigades, ambulance crews, and community organizations have mobilized, but the military are nowhere to be seen,” he added.
The Myanmar military has been locked in civil war with multiple armed opposition groups since a 2021 coup. The devastating earthquake has exacerbated the crisis, with widespread devastation and affected areas held by both junta forces and armed resistance movements.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/amid-earthquake-crisis-myanmar-military-still-bombs-towns-2025-03-30