Civilians Bear the Brunt: 19 Killed in Arakan in First 11 Days of August, Monitor Reports

News ၊ August 12, 2026

Civilians Injured Due to Junta Air Attacks in Thandwe, Arakan (photocrd)

A humanitarian monitor has documented a sharp escalation in attacks on civilians in Myanmar’s western state of Arakan (Rakhine), reporting that at least 19 civilians have been killed and 26 injured in just the first eleven days of August 2026.

The Human Development and Coordination Organization (HDCO) documented multiple incidents attributed to the Myanmar military, including airstrikes on populated areas and a deadly shooting of displaced individuals. The reported incidents highlight a growing concern for civilian safety amidst the ongoing conflict.

Pattern of Attacks

According to HDCO’s documentation, the violence spans several townships. Airstrikes were reportedly conducted on civilian-populated areas in Thandwe, Ann, Mrauk-U, and Paletwa. Additionally, a particularly alarming incident was recorded in Rathedaung Township, specifically on Narsa Island. The report alleges that Myanmar military personnel and armed individuals, dressed in civilian clothes, opened fire on displaced civilians who were fishing.

The attacks have not only resulted in casualties but have also caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, including homes and religious sites.

Condemnation and Call to Action

HDCO expressed deep alarm at the "scale and frequency" of the attacks, condemning them in the strongest terms. The organization emphasized that civilians are not legitimate military targets and stressed the obligation to protect lives, homes, and places of worship.

The group has called on the international community to take urgent action. The appeal includes paying immediate attention to the rising civilian toll in Arakan, strengthening efforts to protect civilians, and supporting accountability for violations of international humanitarian law (IHL).