April 2, 2025

The Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) has announced a 21-day temporary ceasefire from April 2 to April 22, 2025, citing the need to support relief and reconstruction efforts in the wake of a devastating earthquake.

In a four-point statement issued by the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, the Tatmadaw said the ceasefire was declared to express sympathy for affected citizens, facilitate humanitarian aid, and ensure stability during the recovery period.

The Tatmadaw urged ethnic armed groups and other armed organizations to adhere to the ceasefire by refraining from disrupting public transportation routes, harming civilians or their property, attacking security forces, or engaging in activities such as recruitment and territorial expansion. The statement warned that any violations would prompt countermeasures to protect the public.

Since December 2018, the Tatmadaw has declared 22 ceasefires in efforts to promote national peace. In a separate initiative, Myanmar’s State Administration Council extended an invitation for political dialogue on September 26, 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to address political conflicts.

The ceasefire announcement comes amid growing humanitarian concerns following the earthquake, which has caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage across the country.

#ymg/knl