Military government air strikes kill 17 in western Myanmar state

Al Jazeera

February 25, 2026

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A military airstrike in Rakhine state, Myanmar, killed at least 17 people and injured 14 others, including women and children, as reported by local media. The attack occurred on a village market in Yoengu village, which had been captured by the Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic Rakhine armed group, earlier this year. This incident highlights the ongoing violence in the region, where conflict between the Myanmar military and ethnic groups has escalated since the 2021 coup, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. The village of Yoengu lies near Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine state, and is currently under AA control. The group described the victims as "innocent civilians," emphasizing the impact on children and families caught in the crossfire. Eyewitnesses reported burned buildings, scattered bodies, and fleeing survivors amid ongoing fires. This attack underscores the devastating consequences of the military's tactics in areas outside their direct control. Rakhine state has been severely affected by the conflict, with frequent airstrikes and a military blockade exacerbating food insecurity. The World Food Programme has warned of rising hunger and malnutrition due to these factors, compounded by reduced international aid. The situation in Rakhine reflects broader challenges across Myanmar, where thousands have been killed and millions displaced since the coup. The violence in Rakhine state is part of a larger civil war that has drawn criticism from international observers, who have called recent military-backed elections "a sham." This latest airstrike adds to the growing chorus of condemnation over the lack of progress toward peace. The plight of civilians, particularly women and children, remains dire, with little hope for resolution in sight. This ongoing conflict matters globally as it highlights the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and the failure of international efforts to broker peace. The situation in Rakhine state serves as a stark reminder of the

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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026