Myanmar junta bombs vigil, killing at least 18

In central Myanmar, a tragic bombing incident occurred during a candlelight vigil protesting military rule, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, including children and students. The event, which took place in Chaung-U Township of the Sagaing Region, was part of a religious holiday known as the Thadingyut full moon ceremony. People had gathered to voice their opposition to the military junta that has been in power since a coup in 2021. Eyewitness reports described the attack as unprovoked, with the military using motorized paragliders to drop bombs on a civilian gathering. The first bombing took place around 8 p.m., followed by another later. The situation remains dire, with reports indicating that 45 others sustained severe injuries, and local hospitals are treating many survivors. Amnesty International called this attack a violation of human rights, urging immediate investigations into what they classify as a war crime. The junta has a history of similar incidents, which have increased as various armed resistance groups oppose its rule. The planned elections in December, viewed by critics as an attempt to legitimize military governance, only intensify the ongoing violence in the region. The military's aggressive tactics, including bombings against civilians, have left the population in a state of fear as daily acts of violence become the norm. Furthermore, the economic conditions in Myanmar are suffering, with a significant percentage of the population living below or near the poverty line according to a UN report. This alarming trend is attributed to the military's actions, which have diminished foreign investments and increased hardship for ordinary citizens.