Tragic Airstrike in Myanmar Claims Lives of 28, Including Children

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An airstrike carried out by Myanmar’s military in Rakhine state has resulted in the deaths of at least 28 individuals, among them nine children. The attack, which occurred in Mrauk-U Township, targeted a temporary detention camp holding families of junta soldiers, according to the Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic armed group involved in ongoing conflict with the military regime.

The AA reported that the airstrike happened around 4:45 PM on Saturday while they were formulating a plan to release the detained family members. Among the deceased was a two-year-old boy, with the majority of the victims being women and children. The AA posted photos of the aftermath, showing bodies covered in white sheets in a designated area, with grieving relatives present.

This incident is part of the escalating violence in Myanmar since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in February 2021, leading to widespread armed uprisings against the ruling junta. The military has been accused of using airstrikes and artillery fire against civilian populations, particularly in regions embroiled in conflict, such as Rakhine, where fighting has intensified.

The United Nations Development Programme has raised alarms about a potential famine in Rakhine due to the ongoing conflict hampering commerce and agricultural activities. As the situation escalates, over 3.5 million people have been displaced throughout Myanmar, a significant increase from previous years.

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