Myanmar Airstrikes Claim 20 Civilian Lives in 2 Days

Myanmar junta forces launched airstrikes in Shan State, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 civilians, including children and pregnant women, RFA reported today.

The first strike occurred early Friday in the insurgent-controlled town of Namhkan, where two bombs were dropped near the Pawng Pwe night market, killing 11 and injuring another 11. Eyewitnesses reported that entire families were affected, with video footage showing residents searching through rubble for victims.

A second airstrike late Thursday targeted a camp for internally displaced persons in southern Shan State, killing at least nine, including seven children and two women. The region, controlled by the ethnic Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), has experienced significant conflict, with the TNLA making gains against junta forces. Amid these escalating tensions, China has been pressing for peace talks, but violence continues to rise, leaving thousands displaced and in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.