The United Nations expressed deep concern today over the escalating violence in northern Myanmar, particularly in Shan State, where heavy fighting between the army and an alliance of ethnic minority groups has resulted in civilian casualties and the displacement of more than 30,000 people. The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, emphasized the need to protect civilians and called for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid in the conflict-affected areas.
Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for the UN secretary-general, stated, "We are alarmed by the heavy fighting, particularly in Shan State in the northern part of the country, with reports of airstrikes that led to civilian casualties and tens of thousands being newly displaced internally. Our humanitarian colleagues tell us that, since 26 October nearly 33,000 men, women, and children have been displaced."
The situation remains dire as fighting intensified last week in large areas of Shan State, close to the Chinese border. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA) claimed significant territorial gains, posing a threat unseen by the army since the 2021 coup against Aung San Suu Kyi.
The UN calls for an immediate end to the violence and urges all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reaffirms the importance of safeguarding the lives of innocent people and emphasizes the critical need for humanitarian aid to reach those affected without impediments.
In the face of this humanitarian crisis, the international community must stand together to support the people of Myanmar during these challenging times.
Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for the UN secretary-general, stated, "We are alarmed by the heavy fighting, particularly in Shan State in the northern part of the country, with reports of airstrikes that led to civilian casualties and tens of thousands being newly displaced internally. Our humanitarian colleagues tell us that, since 26 October nearly 33,000 men, women, and children have been displaced."
The situation remains dire as fighting intensified last week in large areas of Shan State, close to the Chinese border. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA) claimed significant territorial gains, posing a threat unseen by the army since the 2021 coup against Aung San Suu Kyi.
The UN calls for an immediate end to the violence and urges all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reaffirms the importance of safeguarding the lives of innocent people and emphasizes the critical need for humanitarian aid to reach those affected without impediments.
In the face of this humanitarian crisis, the international community must stand together to support the people of Myanmar during these challenging times.
