Dozens killed in hospital strike in Myanmar’s western Rakhine state
In a significant escalation of violence in Myanmar, a military airstrike on a hospital in Rakhine state has resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, with reports indicating that the toll may rise as rescue efforts continue. The attack, which occurred on December 12, 2025, has drawn widespread condemnation and highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region as the military junta intensifies its operations ahead of scheduled elections later this month.
According to Wai Hun Aung, an aid worker present at the scene, the situation following the strike is dire. “The situation is very terrible,” he stated, confirming the initial death toll and indicating that 68 others have sustained injuries. Eyewitness accounts and local media reports corroborate the aid worker’s claims, suggesting that the military’s actions are part of a broader campaign against opposition forces in the area.
The airstrike comes amid a backdrop of escalating conflict in Myanmar, which has been embroiled in civil war since the military coup in February 2021 that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Since then, the military junta has faced increasing resistance from various ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy forces, leading to a surge in violence across the country. Conflict monitors have reported a year-on-year increase in airstrikes conducted by the military, indicating a shift in tactics as the junta seeks to regain control over territories held by opposition forces.
Rakhine state, which has been a focal point of conflict for years, is home to a complex tapestry of ethnic groups, including the Rohingya, who have faced severe persecution and violence. The region has seen intermittent clashes between the military and various ethnic armed organizations, including the Arakan Army, which has been engaged in a protracted struggle for greater autonomy and rights for the Rakhine people. The recent airstrike on a hospital, a facility that should be protected under international humanitarian law, raises serious concerns about the military’s disregard for civilian safety.
The timing of the attack is particularly significant, as Myanmar prepares for elections scheduled for later this month. The junta has announced plans to hold a general election, which many observers believe is an attempt to legitimize its rule following the coup. However, the elections are widely viewed as a sham by opposition groups and the international community, given the ongoing violence and suppression of dissent. The military’s aggressive tactics, including airstrikes on civilian infrastructure, have drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and foreign governments, who have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for human rights.
The implications of the hospital strike extend beyond immediate casualties. The attack underscores the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Myanmar, where millions are in need of assistance due to ongoing conflict, displacement, and economic instability. The United Nations and various non-governmental organizations have reported that access to healthcare, food, and shelter has been severely compromised in many areas, particularly in conflict zones like Rakhine state. The airstrike on a hospital further exacerbates these challenges, as it not only results in loss of life but also undermines the ability of healthcare providers to deliver essential services to vulnerable populations.
International reactions to the strike have been swift, with calls for accountability and justice for the victims. Human rights advocates have urged the international community to take stronger action against the junta, including targeted sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The situation in Myanmar remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as the military continues its offensive operations.
As the world watches the unfolding crisis in Myanmar, the hospital strike serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of the ongoing conflict. With the elections approaching and the military’s grip on power seemingly unyielding, the prospects for peace and stability in the region appear increasingly bleak. The international community faces a critical juncture in determining how best to respond to the humanitarian crisis and support the aspirations of the Myanmar people for democracy and human rights.
