Two towns in Myanmar, Kyondoe and Kawkareik, located along a key trade route to Thailand, are currently engulfed in conflict despite a recently declared ceasefire intended to facilitate relief efforts following a devastating earthquake in March. The towns, held by the military junta, have been experiencing intense fighting for several days, fueled by tensions originating from the civil war that has raged since the military coup in 2021.
The situation escalated following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, claiming the lives of over 3,700 individuals and resulting in the displacement of approximately 60,000 people, many of whom are now living in makeshift tent encampments, according to United Nations reports. In the wake of the disaster, the junta and various opposition factions announced a temporary ceasefire aimed at providing humanitarian assistance to those affected.
However, residents from the beleaguered towns have reported ongoing hostilities, revealing that a coalition of rebel groups has mounted attacks on the areas. “There were air strikes and artillery shots around our village,” lamented one resident from an outlying area, who requested anonymity for safety. The bombardment has reportedly forced many to flee their homes, with one local recalling the fear that enveloped their community amidst the chaos. Another resident from Kyondoe expressed alarm over the occupation of their village by members of the People’s Defense Force, a pro-democracy militia formed in opposition to the junta.
Despite the junta’s commitment to the ceasefire, allegations of violations have surfaced. Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun accused various armed groups of breaching the temporary truce, particularly in the contested regions surrounding Kyondoe and Kawkareik. While the junta asserted its intention to adhere to the ceasefire until April 22, they also insisted on taking retaliatory action against any assaults.
The broader context reveals that the ongoing fighting has not only resulted in widespread humanitarian crises but has also complicated international efforts to mediate peace. Reports indicate that junta chief Min Aung Hlaing is scheduled to meet with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Bangkok, where discussions are expected to revolve around extending the ceasefire. This meeting comes amidst Malaysia’s role as the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional body that has previously barred junta representatives from participating in summits due to the ongoing violence and lack of progress towards a peace plan.
As the situation unfolds, the conflict in Myanmar continues to pose significant challenges, exacerbating the humanitarian plight of countless individuals caught in the crossfire.
