UN Raises Concerns Over Rohingya Civilians in Myanmar Conflict

The U.N. human rights chief has expressed grave concern for Myanmar's Rohingya Muslim minority following reports of significant casualties in recent clashes between the military government and the Arakan Army, an ethnic rebel group. The U.N. agency has documented serious human rights violations by both parties, including extrajudicial killings, abductions, and indiscriminate attacks on civilians. Reports indicate that at least 150 Rohingya may have been killed due to artillery and drone strikes, with survivors attributing the assaults to the Arakan Army, which has denied responsibility. The ongoing conflict in Rakhine State has reignited fears of organized violence against the Rohingya, reminiscent of the 2017 military campaign that forced over 740,000 individuals to flee to Bangladesh. Currently, around 1 million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, with many living in overcrowded refugee camps and facing uncertain futures due to the instability in their homeland. International courts are investigating whether the military's actions in 2017 amounted to genocide. Amnesty International has warned that the recent attacks bear a striking resemblance to the atrocities of 2017, urging the Myanmar military to cease its violent campaign against civilians. A joint statement from Rohingya support groups reported at least 200 deaths in what they termed the "Naf River Massacre" on August 5, further highlighting the urgent need for international protection and humanitarian assistance for those trapped in the conflict.