Myanmar’s military government has launched an airstrike on a school in the Sagaing region, killing at least 17 children and injuring 20 others. The attack occurred in the town of Depayin, about 160 kilometers northwest of Mandalay, on Monday.
Condemnation from the opposition
The National Unity Government (NUG), Myanmar’s shadow government, strongly condemned the attack, calling it “unacceptable.” NUG spokesperson Nway Nway Latt said the death toll could rise as some people are still missing.
The airstrike happened despite a recent declaration of a temporary ceasefire by the military government following a major earthquake on March 28. The NUG has accused the military of violating the ceasefire.
Ongoing conflict
The attack is the latest in a series of violent clashes between the military and opposition forces. Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar has been embroiled in a civil war, with the military facing resistance from ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy forces allied with the NUG.
The military has been accused of committing atrocities, including airstrikes on civilian targets. The opposition has vowed to continue fighting against the military government.
Ceasefire controversy
The military government’s ceasefire declaration was seen as a gesture to facilitate aid delivery after the earthquake. However, reports of continued fighting and airstrikes have raised questions about its commitment to the ceasefire.
Some opposition groups had initially welcomed the ceasefire, but the recent airstrike has eroded trust. The military government’s spokesperson declined to comment when contacted by Reuters.
The source of this information is Channel News Asia.