Myanmar's military announced it is intensifying airstrikes across several areas in Kachin State after claiming that a Myanmar National Airlines passenger plane was struck by a drone at Myitkyina Airport, while rebel forces denied any involvement.
On 24 February 2026, Myanmar's military declared an escalation of airstrikes, following claims that a Myanmar National Airlines passenger plane was hit by a drone at Myitkyina Airport, with rebel forces denying responsibility.
Sources in Kachin State revealed that Myanmar's military government has continuously increased airstrike operations in multiple areas of Kachin State since 18 February, including in the town of Laiza, which houses the headquarters of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) near the Chinese border.
On Monday morning, the Myanmar military dropped bombs near the villages of Washong and Lamyang in the town of Bhamo, areas frequently witnessing clashes between government troops and the KIA. There were also reports of bombings near Minjang village in Momauk town, with casualties still unknown.
Sources stated that the frequency of airstrikes rose after an ATR 72-600 plane of Myanmar National Airlines was attacked by a suicide drone while parked at Myitkyina Airport. The military blamed the KIA for the attack and vowed to respond with effective and severe retaliation.
However, KIA spokesperson Major Naw Bu denied any policy of attacking civilian targets. Meanwhile, locals expressed concern that if Myitkyina town faces heavier attacks, there will be no safe shelter available.
Source: Irrawaddy