Insight Myanmar30 Mar 2025

Aftershocks

Episode #323: “Quite frankly, and I might catch flak for this, but I'll say it: there is a special place in hell for those who seek to exploit or weaponize this aid, or block this aid for political purposes from getting to those affected communities.”

Jack Myint delivers a powerful and urgent appeal following the catastrophic, March 28th, 7.7-magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar that devastated Mandalay and nearby regions, leaving hospitals, monasteries, universities, and homes in ruins. He describes how the initial rescue efforts came from ordinary citizens using basic tools to save lives. But he notes that, while heroic, such actions are not enough in the face of such widespread devastation. He also mourns the destruction of Mandalay’s historic and religious landmarks, calling the national trauma incalculable.

In the context of Myanmar’s ongoing political crisis since the 2021 coup, Jack pleads for international aid that bypasses politics and directly supports affected communities. He outlines three paths for U.S. involvement: direct emergency assistance via USAID, cooperation with regional allies like India and Singapore, and support through international bodies such as the UN and ASEAN. He insists that these options are not mutually exclusive and must be pursued with urgency.

He closes by urging support for Better Burma’s grassroots fundraising and immediate international action, emphasizing that lives hang in the balance. “The people simply don't have time to wait through political deliberations,” he says, calling for direct support to those already saving lives on the ground.

Please consider a donation today to our earthquake relief fund!

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