US warns Myanmar forces to refrain from attacking civilians

The United States on Thursday told Myanmar that its security forces must refrain from attacking civilians and aid workers in its response to attacks by Rohingya militants in Rakhine state.

At least 18,500 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh following attacks by militants on August 25 and a crackdown by security forces who have torched villages and targeted civilians, according to witness accounts.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley chastised the security forces in a statement.

"As Burmese security forces act to prevent further violence," Haley said, "they have a responsibility to adhere to international humanitarian law, which includes refraining from attacking innocent civilians and humanitarian workers and ensuring assistance reaches those in need."

The UN Security Council met behind closed doors on Wednesday to discuss the violence but there was no formal statement on the crisis.

British Ambassador Matthew Rycroft, who requested the meeting, said there were calls from council members for de-escalation.

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