Myanmar Air Strike Kills Dozens at Hospital in Rakhine

Deadly Myanmar air strike hits a hospital in Rakhine, killing over 30 people as the military intensifies attacks ahead of a controversial election.

Deadly Air Strike Hits Hospital in Rakhine

More than 30 people have been killed and dozens injured after Myanmar’s military carried out an air strike on a hospital in Mrauk-U, Rakhine State. The area is currently controlled by the Arakan Army, one of the strongest ethnic armed groups resisting the junta since the 2021 coup.

Hospital Targeted Amid Escalating Conflict

Ground sources report that the attack happened around 21:00 local time and most of the victims were patients receiving treatment inside the hospital. Photos shared online show collapsed roofs, destroyed medical beds and debris scattered across the compound.

Arakan Army Blames Junta for Civilian Casualties

A spokesperson for the Arakan Army condemned the attack, calling it a “vicious assault on civilians,” and stated that the military must be held responsible. Pro-junta Telegram channels, however, claimed the strike was aimed at enemy targets, not civilians.

Military Intensifies Bombings to Regain Territory

Since losing control of large parts of the country, the junta has increasingly relied on air power, heavy artillery and even motorised paragliders to drop bombs. A previous attack earlier this year killed over 20 people during a religious festival.

Election Tensions Growing Across Myanmar

The air strike comes just days before Myanmar’s planned general election on 28 December. The junta describes the vote as a step toward stability, but critics — including the UN — call it a “sham election.” Many opposition groups and ethnic armies have vowed to boycott the polls.

Crackdown Ahead of the Polls

Authorities have arrested civilians accused of spreading anti-election messages, and an election candidate was recently detained by an anti-junta group in Magway Region. Human rights groups say civil liberties have drastically deteriorated under the military regime.

What This Means Going Forward

The latest attack highlights a worsening humanitarian crisis, collapsing health services, and intensifying conflict in Rakhine State. Analysts warn that as the election approaches, clashes and civilian casualties may increase if political tensions continue to rise.