Sat Mar 29 18:20:05 UTC 2025: ## Myanmar’s Civil War Pauses as Earthquake Death Toll Rises

**Bangkok, March 29, 2025** – Amidst the ongoing civil war, Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG) has declared a two-week ceasefire in earthquake-affected areas. The announcement, made late Saturday, stated that the People’s Defense Force (PDF), the NUG’s armed wing, will halt offensive operations starting Sunday, March 30th. This temporary truce aims to facilitate earthquake relief efforts and allow for collaboration with the UN and NGOs in establishing rescue and medical camps.

The devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake, which struck near Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay, has claimed at least 1,644 lives, according to the ruling military’s latest update. Rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports in Mandalay and the capital, Naypyitaw, hindering the delivery of international aid. The ongoing civil conflict further complicates the situation, making transportation and access to affected areas extremely difficult and raising serious concerns about a potential surge in the death toll. The humanitarian crisis, already exacerbated by the civil war, is expected to worsen significantly due to the earthquake’s impact.

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