The Arakan Army (AA) spokesperson Khaing Thukha has issued a stern warning that the military council’s airstrikes targeting civilians constitute war crimes and they must be held accountable for these actions. He emphasized that the military council’s deliberate targeting of civilians in areas where there is no active fighting represents a blatant commission of war crimes.
On May 13, military council forces conducted an airstrike on Htun Ywa Haung village in Rathedaung Township, Rakhine State, resulting in the deaths of 12 civilians and injuries to 23 others. The attack completely destroyed more than 20 homes and caused significant damage to numerous other residential buildings. The military council used fighter jets to drop two 500-pound bombs during the assault.
Additionally, on May 12, the military council conducted an airstrike on a school in Depayin Township, Sagaing Region, killing 22 people, including 20 students and two teachers, while leaving many others injured. Revolutionary forces have noted that despite the military council’s declaration of a ceasefire, they have actually intensified their air operations in recent days. This escalation of aerial attacks demonstrates a clear pattern of violence against civilians, despite official claims of seeking peace.
