BRUSSELS: The European Union, United States and other countries on Friday expressed their voiced against at the worsening conflict in Myanmar and the increasing harm to civilians.
They expressed concern at reports about civilians in Rakhine State calling on all armed groups to ensure the protection of civilians.
The signatories of the joint statement — the EU, United States, Australia, Britain, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland have stressed to hold all those accountable who committed atrocities in Myanmar.
The United Nations has also warned that escalating fighting in Rakhine had forced around 45,000 Rohingya to flee, amid accusations of killings and burnings of property.
Clashes have hit the state since the Arakan Army, which says it is fighting to deliver more autonomy to its Rakhine population, assaulted ruling junta forces in November, ending a ceasefire.
The signatories to the statement said they were concerned deeply on the escalating conflict in Myanmar and in particular the increasing harm to civilians, which are driving a worsening human rights crisis across the country.
They referred to credible reports of civilians being targeted and the use of civilians as human shields, torture, and sexual violence against women and children.
They accused the government of food and water shortages and cut-off access for medical and other aid.
“In Rakhine State, towns and villages have been consistently targeted by the military regime and armed groups,” the statement said.
