As Myanmar reels from one of its deadliest natural disasters in recent memory, its junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has arrived in Thailand to attend a regional summit—his presence turning heads, given the international sanctions levied against him.
Last Friday’s 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, killing at least 3,085 people and injuring over 4,700. With hundreds still missing, the true toll is feared to be far higher. Cities lie in ruins, and vast areas remain inaccessible due to shattered infrastructure and the country’s ongoing civil war.
Despite this catastrophe, the military regime has been slow to allow unfettered aid access. While some foreign rescue teams have arrived, efforts are hampered by active conflict zones, destroyed roads, and deep mistrust of the junta. A temporary ceasefire was announced Wednesday, but it came only after the regime rejected proposals for coordinated relief efforts from rebel forces.
Shockingly, even after the ceasefire, Myanmar troops opened fire on a Chinese Red Cross convoy delivering aid. The military claimed it was a response to the convoy refusing to stop when signalled. The attack has drawn international condemnation and further clouds the junta’s credibility.
Meanwhile, Min Aung Hlaing’s presence in Bangkok at the Bay of Bengal summit is drawing scrutiny. Thailand - where 21 people were also killed by the quake - has proposed a joint statement on the disaster. But while regional cooperation is welcome, critics warn that such appearances risk legitimizing a regime responsible for the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Myanmar has been in a state of civil war since the military coup of 2021. Ethnic militias and a growing resistance movement have been fighting the junta's brutal grip. With the economy in freefall and inflation rampant, the earthquake has poured gasoline on an already raging fire.
International humanitarian organizations are now calling on the junta to permanently lift aid restrictions and allow unimpeded access to all affected regions. The UN has urged rapid action before the monsoon season arrives within weeks.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: for swift and unblocked humanitarian aid to reach the earthquake’s victims before the monsoon season brings further disaster.
“He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.” - Psalm 146:7 - Pray: for peace and unity to emerge in Myanmar, ending years of war and bloodshed under oppressive rule.
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” - Psalm 34:14 - Pray: for the Church in Myanmar to rise with boldness, offering the hope of Christ amid devastation and fear.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” - Matthew 5:14
Prayer – Praying for those in the middle of this disaster
Lord, bring healing to Myanmar. Let aid flow freely, peace take root, and Your Church shine brightly amid suffering. Strengthen the weary, silence violence, and stir hearts toward mercy, justice, and the eternal hope found in Christ alone.
