To say that Bangladesh has exercised extreme restraint when it comes to Myanmar would be a gross understatement.
Beyond sheltering the over one million Rohingya refugees for years now, who are here as a direct result of what is unquestionably genocide on the part of the Myanmar military, the recent incidents at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, with incidents of Myanmar’s mortar shelling, indiscriminate aerial firing in the bordering areas, and air space violations, have been extremely concerning.
However, no longer are we surprised by Myanmar’s actions; a nation which can commit genocide against its own people, oust legitimate government, and act with a level of impunity that truly is incomprehensible.
Indeed, while Bangladesh were told that these incidents were accidental and unintentional, there is reason to be skeptical, chief of which is Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Aung Kyaw Moe’s inability to answer for the incidents despite being summoned repeatedly .
A thorough investigation is certainly needed, and given Myanmar’s track record, it is certainly safe to assume that some nefarious intent was present.
At this point though, we must ask again: Why are they allowed this impunity?
For years, we have been speaking of the inaction on the part of the international community when it comes to Myanmar’s atrocities; it is no wonder then that they continue to be emboldened, to the point where they are now causing unrest along our borders, where at least one life has been lost as a result.
While it may be akin to beating a dead horse, we need the international community to put pressure on Myanmar, not only to stop this foolishness along our borders but also to ultimately admit to their atrocities and take back the Rohingya while affording them all their rights as citizens of Myanmar.
Enough is enough.
