Junta attacks leave more than 50 civilian casualties in Arakan State

By Admin 17 Nov 2025

DMG Newsroom

17 November 2025, Mrauk-U

Myanmar's military regime has intensified artillery and air strikes across Arakan State, with the civilian death toll rising daily.

According to DMG, at least 22 people - including children - were killed and at least 31 others injured in the second half of November due to artillery, air and drone attacks by the military regime.

Among the civilian casualties are 11 each from Pauktaw and Rathedaung, 18 from Ponnagyun, and 14 from Minbya townships.

"The military regime is only targeting areas where there is no military activity. When the regime launches air strikes, it often hits civilians because it targets buildings and schools. The military regime is in complete violation of the Geneva Conventions," said a young man from Kyauktaw.

The regime has targeted civilian homes, schools, religious buildings and temporary displacement shelters, leaving communities in increasingly precarious conditions.

Customary international humanitarian law requires all armed organisations to protect civilians and prohibits attacks on civilians, abductions, the use of human shields, and the targeting of civilian dwellings.

"The military regime is not taking the Geneva Conventions seriously. The more territory it loses, the more it bombs the people. The regime blatantly violates human rights and commits war crimes. The international community needs to impose sanctions and take action," said a man from Ponnagyun.

At least 13 civilians were killed and 36 injured in October due to the regime's continued bombardment, according to a DMG tally.

People across Arakan State face constant psychological distress due to air and artillery attacks, and are often forced to temporarily relocate to safer areas when airstrikes occur.

"It's frustrating that locals are constantly worried about aircraft. Wherever they go, they look for a place to hide. How will they hide if a plane suddenly comes? It's heartbreaking that people have to live with such fear and anxiety," said a woman from Kyauktaw Township.

The military regime has stepped up its offensive in Arakan State following its ceasefire with the Ta'ang National Liberation Army, launching a series of attacks on areas controlled by the Arakan Army.

The Arakan Army has warned of heightened airstrike risks and urged the public to remain vigilant around the clock due to the regime's deliberate daily bombings.