UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed profound concern on Thursday over the escalating conflict in Myanmar, condemning recent military actions that have resulted in significant civilian casualties.

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the increasing violence across Myanmar and strongly condemns the recent attacks by the Myanmar military that have reportedly killed scores of civilians, including in Rakhine State and Sagaing Region," stated UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres underscored the pressing need for the protection of all communities amidst ongoing human rights abuses and indiscriminate aerial bombings, stressing accountability for those responsible.

"Those responsible must be held to account," noted the statement.

"The Secretary-General calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint, prioritize protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law," it continued, urging efforts to "prevent further incitement of communal tension and violence."

The UN Chief emphasized the broader regional implications of Myanmar's worsening situation, advocating for a unified international response to address the crisis.

Guterres called for support for his Special Envoy Julie Bishop in facilitating an inclusive, Myanmar-led peace process. This initiative aims to promote sustainable peace in collaboration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and neighboring countries.

The crisis in Myanmar has had severe repercussions, particularly for the Rohingya community. A brutal military crackdown in Rakhine State in 2017 forced the majority of Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh, where they now reside in overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar. Since late 2020, approximately 35,000 have been relocated to the island of Bhasan Char.

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