Junta airstrikes kill six civilians in Sagaing monastery and villages

Airstrikes conducted by Myanmar's military junta have resulted in the deaths of six civilians across a monastery compound and surrounding villages in Sagaing Region, according to reports. The bombing campaign struck during the Buddhist Lent period, a time of spiritual significance observed throughout the country.

Two of those killed were internally displaced persons sheltering at the monastery compound when the strikes occurred. The attack has compounded the humanitarian crisis affecting the region, as displaced communities already struggling with displacement have faced renewed violence and loss of life.

The airstrikes have triggered further displacement, with additional internally displaced persons forced to evacuate the monastery compound and surrounding areas to escape ongoing military operations. The exact circumstances surrounding the bombardment and its strategic rationale have not been clarified by military authorities.

Sagaing Region has experienced sustained military operations as fighting between junta forces and armed resistance groups continues across Myanmar. Civilian casualties from aerial bombardment have become an increasingly documented concern in conflict-affected areas throughout the country.