A tragic airstrike in Myanmar’s Sagaing region on Monday resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals, including 20 children, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. Witnesses reported that the strike targeted a school in the village of Oe Htein Kwin around 10:00 AM local time, despite the military’s declared humanitarian ceasefire intended to assist recovery efforts following a catastrophic earthquake on March 28.
The attack left the vibrant green school building in ruins, with its metal roof crumpled and walls pockmarked by explosives. Outside the destroyed structure, abandoned school bags lay scattered, while grieving parents worked to carve small graves into the earth for their lost children. “For now 22 people in total – 20 children and two teachers – have been killed,” shared a local teacher who wished to remain anonymous, noting the frantic atmosphere as parents rushed to gather their families.
According to an education official from the area, the death toll corroborated the teacher’s account. In contrast, the junta’s information team dismissed reports of the airstrike as “fabricated news,” insisting that no military operations targeted civilian areas.
Myanmar has been enduring civil unrest since the military ousted the elected government in 2021. The subsequent conflict has embroiled various anti-coup guerrillas and established ethnic armed groups, resulting in substantial casualties and suffering for the civilian population. Despite a pledge for a ceasefire throughout April, aimed at facilitating rebuilding efforts, the junta’s military activity continued unabated.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Secretary General, Jagan Chapagain, emphasized the urgency of addressing the immense humanitarian needs, stating, “My worry is that time is not on our side,” as many citizens remain displaced, facing the impending monsoon season.
The United Nations and various conflict monitors report that military operations persisted even under the banner of ceasefire, estimating that over 200 civilians have died in more than 240 military attacks since the earthquake, including 171 airstrikes. The junta’s ceasefire announcement included a caveat, warning of “necessary defensive measures” if provoked by opposition forces.
As humanitarian efforts face obstacles, independent monitors note that several anti-coup and ethnic armed factions have also announced pauses in hostilities. However, some residents in eastern Myanmar report being displaced as anti-coup forces clash with junta troops in strategic regions, further complicating the already dire circumstances.
The March earthquake, measuring 7.7 in magnitude, caused severe destruction across the central belt of Myanmar, with ground displacement reaching up to six meters in some locations. The disaster exacerbated the crisis, leaving tens of thousands homeless and impeding relief responses, which are struggling with funding shortages following significant cuts to international aid budgets.
