An airstrike by the junta in Myanmar on a hospital in Mrauk U has resulted in the death of at least 31 people and injured another 68, in the context of escalating violence ahead of elections.

At least 31 people were killed in an airstrike by the junta in Myanmar, which targeted a general hospital in the city of Mrauk U, located in Rakhine state, near the border with Bangladesh. The attack took place on Wednesday evening, and a humanitarian worker confirmed that the death toll could be even higher, considering that 68 people were injured. This action comes in the context of an extensive military offensive, amid the approach of legislative elections scheduled for December 28. The military junta has intensified airstrikes since 2021, following its takeover through a coup, and rebels have vowed to prevent the election from taking place in areas they control. The junta's spokesperson did not provide an immediate response to requests for comments.