Myanmar Military Air Strike Kills At Least 18 in Rakhine State

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – At least 18 people were killed in myanmar’s military air strike against two private schools in the state of Rakhine. The armed group of Arakan armed groups (AA) and local media reports said that most of the victims were students in their early teens. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 14, 2025, and has drawn condemnation from international organizations.

The military confirmed the strike but claimed it was targeting an AA base and denied hitting schools. However, witnesses and local sources contradict this claim, stating the attack directly impacted the schools, resulting in numerous casualties among students and teachers.

Details of the Attack

The air strike took place in the village of Phayun in Rakhine state.According to the AA, the military used fighter jets to bomb the area, specifically targeting a school building and a monastery that also served as a learning center. Initial reports indicate that the attack was carried out around 3:00 PM local time.

Photographs circulating online show the aftermath of the strike, with buildings reduced to rubble and bodies being recovered from the debris. The exact number of injured remains unclear, but local hospitals are reportedly overwhelmed with casualties.

Ongoing Conflict in Rakhine State

Rakhine state has been the site of intense fighting between the military and the AA for several months.The AA is a well-equipped ethnic armed organization seeking greater autonomy for the Rakhine people. The conflict has displaced tens of thousands of civilians, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.

The military has been accused of using disproportionate force and targeting civilians in Rakhine state.These accusations are part of a broader pattern of human rights abuses documented throughout Myanmar as the military coup in February 2021.

International Response

The United Nations has condemned the air strike and called for an immediate investigation.Several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have also expressed their concern and urged the military to respect international humanitarian law.

Human Rights Watch has called for the military to be held accountable for the attack, stating that it may constitute a war crime. The organization has urged the international community to impose targeted sanctions on military officials responsible for the violence.

Key Takeaways

• At least 18 people, primarily students, were killed in a Myanmar military air strike in Rakhine state.
• The military claims it targeted an AA base,but local sources confirm the attack hit schools directly.
• Rakhine state has been experiencing intense conflict between the military and the Arakan Army (AA).
• The international community has condemned the attack and called for an investigation.
• This incident highlights the ongoing human rights crisis in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)

What is the Arakan Army (AA)?

The Arakan Army is a well-equipped ethnic armed organization in Myanmar seeking greater autonomy for the Rakhine people. They operate primarily in Rakhine state.

What is the current situation in rakhine state?

Rakhine state is experiencing intense conflict between the military and the AA, leading to widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis.

What has been the international response to the air strike?

The UN and several countries have condemned the attack and called for an investigation. Human Rights watch has called for accountability and potential war crime investigations.

What was the date of the air strike?

The air strike occurred on Tuesday,September 14,2025.

Published: 2025/09/14 23:36:22