Myanmar has been embroiled in civil war since the military coup five years ago, which provoked armed resistance from democracy activists and ethnic minority groups that have long been marginalized, particularly in remote areas of the country. Rakhine State, located on the western coast, is one of the most severely affected regions, controlled almost entirely by the ethnic minority Arakan Army (AA), which has been under continuous bombardment and blockade by the junta.

On Tuesday, the junta's air force struck Yoe Ngu village in the Ponagiun district, approximately 33 kilometers northeast of the state capital, Sittwe. According to reports from the AA and local volunteer groups, the airstrike targeted a marketplace, leading to significant civilian casualties. The junta spokesperson could not be reached for comment regarding the incident, underscoring the increasing challenges in communication and accountability within Myanmar during the ongoing conflict.

The Arakan Army stated that the airstrike resulted in the deaths of 17 "innocent civilians," including three children, and left another 15 individuals injured. Pyae Phyo Naing, chairman of the Ponagiun youth association, expressed deep concern over the loss of life, highlighting the tragic toll the conflict is exacting on innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The event not only reflects the ongoing violence in Myanmar but also raises questions regarding the humanitarian implications and the need for international attention and intervention in the region.