U.N. warns of civilian harm in Myanmar, urges end to bombardment and humanitarian access

Farhan, a U.N. spokesperson, said the United Nations is "concerned by ongoing violence in Myanmar including aerial bombardment hitting civilians and civilian infrastructure," and called for "unimpeded access of relief workers and supplies" to meet urgent humanitarian needs.

The spokesperson said the secretary-general "reiterates his concern over the military's plan to hold elections amid ongoing conflict and human rights violations and without conditions, including safety and security, that would permit the people of Myanmar" to participate. Farhan said the U.N. supports efforts to uphold democratic institutions and to pursue "constructive dialogue and reconciliation in accordance with the will and interest of the people of Myanmar."

The briefing cited the U.N. Charter and the values echoed in the Helsinki Final Act as guiding principles and called on regional actors, including ASEAN, to work with the U.N. to seek sustainable peace.

Farhan framed the situation as one requiring both protection of civilians and stepped-up humanitarian operations; no formal U.N. decision or vote was reported during the briefing.