UN Reports Over 170 Civilians Killed in Myanmar Air Strikes During Election
The United Nations has confirmed that at least 170 civilians, including 45 children, were killed in Myanmar military air strikes on a village in Rakhine state. The attack occurred on Monday as the junta held controversial elections.
Key Details of the Attack
- Location: Kanan village, Kyauktaw township, Rakhine State.
- Target: A gathering of mostly displaced people.
- Casualties: 170+ killed, over 100 injured.
- Timing: Coincided with military-held elections for vacant parliamentary seats.
“At least 170 civilians, including 45 children, were killed and over 100 injured in the attack,” the UN said in a statement.
“The UN in Myanmar is deeply concerned about the escalating violence in Rakhine State and its devastating impact on civilians.”
Escalating Conflict and Military Elections
Myanmar’s military, which seized power in a 2021 coup, has repeatedly been accused of targeting civilians in air strikes. It denies these allegations, claiming to fight “terrorists”.
The attack happened as the junta conducted polls boycotted by the main opposition and widely dismissed as a sham to legitimize military rule.
Arakan Army’s Growing Gains
Rakhine state has seen intense fighting as the ethnic Arakan Army (AA) has made significant advances against the military. Since November, the AA has captured several towns and bases in Rakhine and neighbouring Chin state.
The AA is one of several long-standing ethnic armed groups battling the military for autonomy and resource control.
UN Calls for Protection of Civilians
The UN described the Kanan village strike as a “grim reminder of the human cost of the conflict”.
“The UN calls on all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and to ensure the protection of civilians,” it said.
“The UN also calls for unhindered humanitarian access to all those in need.”
The Myanmar military has not yet commented on the attack. The incident underscores the severe humanitarian crisis amid the country’s and ongoing civil war.
