Myanmar Junta Extends Ceasefire Until June 30 Following Earthquake Devastation

June 3, 2025 – MMNN Desk

Myanmar’s military-led State Administration Council (SAC) has announced an extension of its unilateral ceasefire until June 30, citing the need to facilitate recovery and reconstruction in areas affected by the devastating earthquake that struck at the end of March.

The powerful quake resulted in nearly 3,800 deaths and displaced thousands across central Myanmar. In response, the military temporarily declared a ceasefire to allow for humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. However, despite the ceasefire announcement, observers have reported continued airstrikes and clashes in certain regions.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the junta confirmed that the ceasefire, initially set to expire on May 31, would be extended by another month. The SAC claimed the extension aims to enable smoother relief and rehabilitation operations in the disaster-hit areas.

“The reconstruction of damaged government offices, public housing, and transport infrastructure is being actively pursued,” the junta’s official media reported.

This marks the second official ceasefire declaration by the junta since the earthquake and is also being framed as supportive of preparations for upcoming national elections.

Military leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has previously pledged to hold elections by January 2026. However, the statement also issued a warning that the military reserves the right to defend itself against attacks from ethnic armed organizations and anti-regime resistance forces.

The latest extension follows calls from Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan during last week’s regional meeting for the military to declare a formal ceasefire in the interest of stability and humanitarian access.

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For MMNN (Myanmar Muslim News Network)
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