Civilian casualties rise in Arakan State as junta intensifies coordinated airstrikes

DMG Newsroom

20 June 2026, Kyauktaw

Coordinated formation airstrikes launched by the military junta across Arakan State have caused mounting civilian casualties, killing at least 13 people and injuring 31 others in June, local monitors reported Saturday.

The increase in civilian deaths follows a series of heavy aerial bombardments by regime forces targeting populated areas in Kyauktaw, Kyaukphyu, Ramree, and Gwa townships.

Local records show that the June 17 attack on Kyauktaw town and surrounding areas involved three junta jet fighters carrying out continuous bombardments for about one hour. The assault killed eight civilians and injured 19 others.

"International legal bodies must hold Min Aung Hlaing accountable immediately," said Daw Ma Khin Nu, a resident of Lanmadaw Village who lost family members in the June 17 attack. "The regime has systematically killed civilians. They are targeting innocent people, and justice must be delivered without delay."

Military observers said the junta has shifted toward sustained aerial operations using multiple aircraft formations. Unlike previous attacks involving individual aircraft, recent strikes have involved coordinated deployments designed to maintain prolonged bombardments.

The escalation comes as the Arakan Army continues expanding its operations alongside allied resistance forces in Magway, Bago, and Ayeyarwady regions.

Despite deploying reinforcements, heavy weapons, and air support in attempts to regain control of areas in Arakan State, junta forces have faced repeated setbacks from Arakan Army counter-offensives.

Analysts said the regime’s inability to advance on the ground may have pushed military commanders to increase aerial attacks against civilian areas.

"This is a systematic campaign of state sponsored aerial terrorism," said Zin Yaw, a former army captain aligned with the Civil Disobedience Movement. "The generals are attempting to use civilian suffering to pressure resistance groups into negotiations. However, the junta is not only fighting the Arakan Army. It is waging a wider war against the people of Arakan and destroying communities because it cannot achieve a military victory."

The continued airstrikes have caused widespread fear and trauma among local communities, leaving civilians increasingly vulnerable to aerial attacks.

Local administrative authorities have issued emergency warnings urging residents to remain vigilant and follow air raid safety measures as junta aircraft continue operations.