ICRC calls on armed groups to avoid targeting of civilians

By Admin 14 Nov 2023

DMG Newsroom
14 November 2023, Sittwe

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has called on armed groups in Myanmar directly engaged in fighting not to target civilians.

Armed conflicts have a negative impact on communities, posing risks to their safety and means of living, said an ICRC statement on November 13, adding: “Civilians are not the target.” 

Hostilities between the military and Arakan Army (AA) resumed in Arakan State on Monday morning.

At least four locals were killed and 10 others were injured on November 13 alone due to what critics and observers have described as the indiscriminate use of heavy weapons and small arms in Arakan State. 

“I just want to say that the actions of the military council in attacking civilians was a classless act,” said a community elder in Mrauk-U.

The ICRC said it is vital that armed groups make a clear distinction between those who are to be protected, such as civilians, healthcare workers, the wounded, surrenderers and prisoners, and those who are active combatants.

As Operation 1027, led by the Three Brotherhood Alliance, has gained momentum across Myanmar, military and political analysts have predicted a growing civilian casualty count.

“Stopping the fighting is not so sure anymore. The fighting continues. The military council may have difficulty controlling its territory. When that time comes, the military council could target the people even more,” said U Pe Than, a veteran politician in Arakan State.

Clashes between the military and AA were reported in five places in Arakan State on November 13, with large hauls of weapons seized and several junta soldiers and police killed in the fighting, the Three Brotherhood Alliance said.

More than 2,000 local people in Rathedaung, Ponnagyun and Minbya townships have fled to safer locations in fear due to the ongoing hostilities.

Residents have demanded that the warring parties act deliberately to prevent harm to the civilian population.

“If there is fighting between the two armed groups, I don’t want to see harm come to the people,” said a local man from Phetharpyin Village in Minbya Township. “I would like to ask the armed groups not to attack innocent civilians.”

“Under humanitarian law, the civilian population in general is protected from dangers arising from military operations,” according to ICRC.  “However, some groups among the population, such as children, women, the elderly, persons with disabilities and displaced people, have specific needs and are entitled to special attention. Civilians can also expect, under humanitarian law, adequate care and respect.”