Myanmar military air strike kills dozens in rebel-held market

The air strike struck a crowded marketplace in an area held by anti-junta forces in Rakhine State on Wednesday, according to reports from the region. Local sources confirmed at least 33 fatalities, though casualty figures remained fluid as rescue efforts continued in the aftermath of the attack.

Rakhine State has witnessed intensified conflict following the military's seizure of power in February 2021. Armed resistance movements have consolidated control over portions of the state, prompting military responses including air operations previously considered rare in the conflict.

The strike represents a significant escalation in tactics employed by the Myanmar military against opposition-held areas. Civilian markets have increasingly become flashpoints in the broader conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands since the coup.

The Myanmar military junta has faced mounting international condemnation over its conduct in the conflict, though air strikes on civilian areas have become more frequent in recent months. Humanitarian organizations have warned of a deepening crisis in Rakhine State, with limited access to affected populations hampering relief efforts.