Unknown event in Myanmar on Fri 10th January 2025

Air raids by Myanmar's military in the western province of Rakhine this week killed dozens of civilians, according to the United Nations, as the country remains riven by violence four years after a coup.

The UN said late Friday evening, military government forces attacked Kyauk Ni Maw, a community in Ramree island township, killing over 40 people and destroying around 500 houses. Women and children were among those slain in Rakhine, according to the statement, which cited the UN humanitarian coordinator in Myanmar."Fighting in Rakhine has recently intensified, with civilians paying the highest price of the war," according to a statement."

Civilians endure extreme risks, severe food insecurity, and a near total breakdown of critical public services."The UN report backs up prior testimony from a rescue worker and the ethnic armed organization, the Arakan Army (AA), concerning the fatal conflict in Rakhine.

The AA named at least 26 Muslim villagers who were murdered and 12 injured in the attack. The AFP news agency received photos of the bombing's aftermath, which showed dazed civilians walking amid charred, smoking debris.  The government has consistently denied claims that its forces are committing atrocities against civilians, claiming that it is combating "terrorists."

On Friday, the UN issued a statement urging all parties to comply with international humanitarian law.It also urged all parties "to ensure unhindered humanitarian access to provide aid to the most vulnerable."The UN said last week that the fighting in Myanmar has displaced more than 3.5 million people, a 1.5 million rise from the previous year.