The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar has risen to 144, with more than 700 others injured, according to junta leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, who issued a televised address on Friday appealing for international assistance. "The death toll from the earthquake centered in Mandalay has reached 144, with 732 injured," Min Aung Hlaing said, warning that the number of casualties could rise as search and rescue operations continue and as the full extent of the damage becomes clearer. The general described widespread destruction across multiple regions, with severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and religious buildings. He called on the international community to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck Myanmar's Sagaing region on Friday, was followed just 12 minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, according to the US Geological Survey. In neighboring Thailand, at least six people were confirmed dead, and more than 117 were reported trapped or missing after a high-rise building under construction collapsed in Bangkok due to the quake. Thai authorities have declared Bangkok an emergency zone, and rescue efforts are ongoing. The seismic event has been one of the most devastating in the region in recent years, with tremors felt across Southeast Asia. — Agencies
