Hundreds Killed by Drone Strikes in Myanmar Conflict

Concerns are escalating regarding the potential for ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya Muslim community following reports of drone strikes that killed hundreds, including women and children, as they attempted to flee violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state. Witnesses claim the Arakan Army (AA), an armed group engaged in conflict with the Myanmar military, was responsible for the attacks. However, the AA has denied involvement, attributing the deaths to the Myanmar military and other armed groups. The recent violence mirrors the brutal military campaigns against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017, which are currently under investigation for genocide by the International Court of Justice. Reports indicate that violence has persisted in the region, with accounts of further deaths, sexual violence, and forced conscription by the AA. A Rohingya student who fled to Bangladesh recounted witnessing numerous casualties during drone and artillery strikes, highlighting the dire situation faced by those remaining in Rakhine. Human Rights Watch has reported that both the Myanmar military and the AA have committed extrajudicial killings and arson against civilians, raising alarms about ethnic cleansing. Medical staff in Bangladesh have noted a significant increase in serious injuries among Rohingya refugees, emphasizing the deteriorating safety for civilians in Myanmar and the perilous journeys they undertake to seek refuge. The Rohingya community has long faced discrimination and violence, with many still living in restricted camps. As fighting intensifies, humanitarian organizations are calling for immediate protection for civilians and unimpeded access to medical care for those affected by the ongoing conflict.