Airstrikes in Myanmar claim lives of 17, Including nine children

• Airstrikes by Myanmar's military on Kanan village kill 17, including nine children
• Pro-democracy resistance stronghold targeted in northwest Sagaing region near the Indian border
• Escalated airstrikes target both pro-democracy Peoples Defense Force and ethnic minority guerrilla groups

Airstrikes conducted by Myanmar's military on Kanan village, under the control of the pro-democracy resistance, have resulted in the loss of 17 lives, including nine children, according to residents and a human rights group. The military, however, denies responsibility for the deadly attack. The morning attacks in Sagaing region's Khampat town, near the Indian border, also left around 20 people injured.

The country has been engulfed in violence since the military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. The crackdown on peaceful demonstrations led to an armed resistance against military rule, resulting in widespread conflict across Myanmar. The military has escalated airstrikes against both the pro-democracy People's Defence Force and ethnic minority guerrilla groups seeking autonomy.

The military government, in response to accusations, often blames pro-democracy forces for violent campaigns. However, credible evidence gathered by the United Nations and non-governmental organizations points to large-scale human rights abuses by the military. These include the burning of entire villages and displacement of nearly 2 million people, triggering a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.