UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has intensified appeals for international support as Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of a magnitude-7.9 earthquake that has claimed over 3,000 lives. Speaking at a press conference Thursday, Guterres described scenes of 'utter devastation and desperation' across the country, urging nations to accelerate funding and ensure unimpeded aid delivery.
The quake, which struck on March 28, 2025, has injured 4,589 people and left 221 missing according to state media reports. Rescue operations face heightened urgency with Myanmar's monsoon season approaching, threatening to compound humanitarian challenges.
Guterres welcomed temporary ceasefires announced by Myanmar's authorities, deeming them critical for facilitating relief distribution. The UN chief confirmed deployments of senior officials to coordinate response efforts: Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher and special envoy Julie Bishop will soon arrive to bolster peacebuilding and humanitarian operations.
The disaster compounds existing political instability and economic strain in Myanmar. 'This crisis exposes systemic vulnerabilities affecting millions,' Guterres emphasized, while reaffirming the UN's commitment to both immediate relief and long-term recovery strategies.
International observers warn that delayed assistance could trigger secondary crises, including disease outbreaks and food shortages, particularly in hard-hit regions like Sagaing where survivors scramble for basic supplies.
