Franklin Graham Commends U.S. Support in Wake of Myanmar Earthquake

As Myanmar grapples with the devastation of a recent earthquake, Reverend Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, lauded the swift cooperation from the Burmese government. He also expressed confidence in the response from the United States under President Donald J. Trump.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Graham stated, “America has always been generous.” He emphasized Trump’s support for aid while acknowledging the need to eliminate wasteful spending in humanitarian efforts. Graham remarked, “President Trump is not against aid. He supports aid, but he does not support waste. In the past, our government has wasted too much money. I believe the President will be very generous in this situation.”

Graham also highlighted the personal challenges faced by Trump. “I believe God saved his life,” he noted, referencing an assassination attempt on the President. Graham urged the public to pray for Trump’s safety amidst ongoing threats to his life.

Samaritan’s Purse Responds to the Crisis

Samaritan’s Purse has swiftly mobilized to provide relief, establishing surgical operations in Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, which was heavily affected by the earthquake. The organization has received full cooperation from the Burmese government, which granted access and facilitated necessary visa approvals for relief workers.

Initially, Samaritan’s Purse set up 60 beds and two operating theaters. Graham reported that the government added 24 additional beds through medical container units, bringing the total to 84 beds and three operating theaters. “The rest of the hospital arrives tomorrow. We should be fully operational by the day after tomorrow,” he explained.

According to the latest press release from Samaritan’s Purse, the organization is setting up a comprehensive emergency field hospital equipped with an emergency room, laboratory, pharmacy, critical care unit, and two permanent operating rooms. Almost 100 earthquake victims awaited surgery when the team arrived.

Providing Urgent Care

Graham commented on the urgent need for medical assistance, stating, “Speed is critical after a deadly earthquake like the one that rocked Myanmar. We praise God that we are already providing surgery while building the full field hospital.”

One of the first patients treated was a woman who protected her son during a building collapse. Graham shared her story: “She covered her son’s body with her body to protect him. She had issues with her spine and needed surgery. Thanks be to God, she is recovering well.”

The Scale of the Disaster

The humanitarian need in Myanmar is enormous. With over 3,500 confirmed deaths and countless others injured or missing, Graham remarked, “People are lined up to come in; there is just no help up there. This is a very poor, very desperate part of the world. It’s going to take years for them to rebuild, if they can rebuild at all.”

Samaritan’s Purse has dispatched over 104 tons of essential supplies to the region. These supplies include six water filtration systems, hygiene kits, emergency shelter materials, and solar lights, all delivered via a cargo plane from Greenville, South Carolina. Additionally, the organization has more than 80 Disaster Assistance Response Team members already in the country, with more personnel on the way.

Logistical Challenges and Commitment

The logistics of the operation play a crucial role in the success of the mission. Graham explained how preparedness has facilitated the quick response: “We keep all of this in stock. We have warehouses here in North Carolina. It’s a matter of loading the boxes on the plane and going.” He added that resupply missions will occur approximately every ten days.

Conditions in the region are challenging, with temperatures soaring above 110°F and high humidity levels. The team is living in tents and working in harsh circumstances. Graham stated, “We provide our own accommodations. We have our own water, our electricity; we’re self-contained. But it’s a tough assignment.”

Despite these hardships, the team remains dedicated. Graham reported, “They’re holding clinics during the day and operating during the night. Our team is motivated and excited for the opportunity to serve the people of Myanmar in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

A Long History of Service

Samaritan’s Purse has a history of response efforts in Myanmar, including its involvement during Cyclone Nargis in 2008. The organization maintained a country office from 2017 until 2022.

Graham emphasized the need for prayer and financial support to continue their work. He remarked, “This is a long way from home, and we need prayer, number one. Financial help is critical, too.”

Commitment to the Mission

In closing, Graham underscored the mission of Samaritan’s Purse, saying, “We want every patient to know that God loves them and that they are not alone. Please pray for everyone affected and for our Disaster Assistance Response Team as they serve those who are hurting in Jesus’ Name.”

Samaritan’s Purse is a Christian humanitarian organization based in Boone, North Carolina. Renowned for its rapid disaster response, it provides emergency medical care, shelter, clean water, and essential supplies globally, operating in over 100 countries to offer both physical relief and spiritual hope.