33 Killed in Airstrike on Market in Myanmar’s Rakhine State

At least 33 people were killed and 36 others injured after an airstrike hit a market and nearby bridge in Myanmar’s western Rakhine state, according to the Arakan Army, which controls the area.

The strike took place around midday on Monday in Kyauktaw, with the Arakan Army warning that the death toll could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue.

Market Area Hit by Airstrike

A witness at the scene told reporters that more than 30 bodies were visible among damaged buildings and debris following the attack.

Firefighters worked to control fires at the site, while recovered bodies were placed under coverings as relatives searched for missing family members.

One local resident, whose sister worked as a fruit vendor at the market, said she could not find her after the strike and was also concerned about her young niece.

Another witness said he took shelter after hearing that military aircraft were approaching. He later heard a large explosion and temporarily lost his hearing because of the blast.

Important Trade Route Affected

The market is located near a river crossing that serves as an important trade route toward the Indian border.

The area has become an active commercial centre during Myanmar’s ongoing conflict, particularly as large parts of Rakhine have become difficult to access from other parts of the country.

The Arakan Army has gained control over most of Rakhine state, although Myanmar’s military continues to hold several urban areas and has maintained the ability to conduct air operations.

Civilian Casualties Raise Concern

Rakhine has been among the areas most affected by Myanmar’s continuing conflict, which began following the military coup in 2021.

Rights organisations have accused the military of carrying out airstrikes that have affected civilian locations, including schools, religious sites and public gatherings. Such allegations have prompted concerns over possible violations of international humanitarian law.

According to United Nations data cited in the report, nearly 500,000 people have been displaced in Rakhine because of the conflict.

Conflict-monitoring organisation ACLED estimates that more than 100,000 people have been killed across Myanmar since the 2021 military takeover.

The Arakan Army and local sources described the Kyauktaw strike as one of the deadliest recent attacks in Rakhine, with the full impact of the incident still being assessed.