UN Secretary-General Expresses Concern Over Myanmar Military Airstrikes in Rakhine State
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed alarm over the reports of ongoing airstrikes by the Myanmar military on villages in Rakhine state. According to locals, more than 20 people were killed in the attacks on Monday.
Background
Clashes have been escalating in Rakhine state since the Arakan Army (AA) attacked security forces in November, breaking a ceasefire that had been in place since the military coup on February 1, 2021, which ousted the elected government of Aung Sang Suu Kyi.
Guterres’ spokesperson stated that the Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the situation, particularly the recent airstrikes in Minbya township that resulted in civilian casualties. The village of Thar Dar was hit by an airstrike, resulting in the deaths of 10 men, four women, and 10 children.
Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of tens of thousands of people in Rakhine. The region has faced challenges in communication due to disrupted mobile networks, making it difficult to provide aid and support to those in need.
Despite junta troops controlling Sittwe, AA fighters have made advances in surrounding areas, leading to further violence and instability. The conflict has also spilled over into neighboring countries like India and Bangladesh, causing casualties and raising concerns about regional security.
Historical Context
The Arakan Army is one of several armed ethnic minority groups in Myanmar that have been fighting for autonomy and control of resources since the country’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1948. The longstanding conflicts have continued to pose challenges to peace and stability in the region.