Myanmar Earthquake: Bombing, aftershocks slow down rescue ops; Over 1,700 killed

Myanmar is struggling to recover after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastated the country, killing at least 1,700 people and leaving thousands injured or missing. While rescue teams work to save survivors trapped under rubble, the military junta has continued airstrikes, sparking global outrage.

The earthquake struck on Friday, causing widespread destruction and tremors felt as far as Thailand, Vietnam, and China. It was followed by several strong aftershocks, including a 6.7-magnitude tremor that further worsened the damage. At least 3,400 people are injured, and nearly 300 remain missing, according to the junta’s reports.

Despite the catastrophe, Myanmar’s military launched airstrikes on ethnic armed groups, including the Danu People's Liberation Army (DPLA) in northern Shan state. In one attack, five military aircraft bombed a DPLA base in Naungcho township, killing seven fighters, including five female soldiers. Reports suggest that other airstrikes have also occurred, worsening the humanitarian crisis.

The collapse of a key bridge over the Irrawaddy River has made rescue efforts even more difficult, cutting off access to severely affected areas. Relief teams are racing against time to reach survivors, but blocked roads and communication failures have slowed operations. Experts warn that the final death toll could take weeks to determine as more bodies are recovered from the rubble.

The United Nations and human rights organizations have strongly condemned the military’s actions. Tom Andrews, the UN special rapporteur for Myanmar, called for an immediate ceasefire, stating that it was “incredible” that the junta continued bombing people amid a national disaster.

With thousands left homeless and resources stretched thin, Myanmar faces a dire humanitarian crisis. International organizations are calling for urgent aid, but the combination of natural disaster and ongoing conflict has made relief efforts extremely challenging.