Geneva: The United Nations on Friday strongly condemned a deadly airstrike by Myanmar’s military that killed at least 24 civilians, including children, during a religious festival in Sagaing Region earlier this week. The attack has been described as part of a “disturbing pattern” of indiscriminate violence against civilians.

The incident occurred on Monday in Chaung-U township, where locals had gathered to celebrate a national religious festival. Eyewitnesses reported that a motorised paraglider dropped two explosives on the crowd, leaving at least 24 people dead and over 45 injured.

Reacting to the tragedy, the United Nations Geneva tweeted: “A deadly airstrike in #Myanmar has killed at least 24 civilians, including children, during a religious festival. @UN condemns this indiscriminate attack and calls for accountability. Civilians are #NotATarget.”

UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told reporters in New York: “This tragic incident, if confirmed, would add to a disturbing pattern of indiscriminate attacks affecting civilians across the country. The indiscriminate use of airborne munitions is unacceptable. All parties to the conflict must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law.”

Sagaing Region has been one of the worst-hit areas since the February 2021 military coup, which ousted the democratically elected government and led to the detention of President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. The region has also suffered significant damage from a major earthquake earlier this year, compounding humanitarian needs.

According to the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), Sagaing has recorded the highest number of airstrikes and civilian casualties in Myanmar. Between March 28 and May 31, 2025, the region experienced over 108 airstrikes, resulting in at least 89 deaths.

OHCHR warned that the military has increasingly relied on air power, including paramotor tactics capable of deploying 120mm mortar rounds, to strike civilian-populated and disaster-affected areas. These attacks occurred despite the junta announcing temporary ceasefires in April and May to facilitate earthquake relief operations.

The UN reiterated its call for an end to violence, accountability for war crimes, and protection of civilians in Myanmar, urging all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.

IANS