The situation of Myanmar refugees returned to their country has drawn international concern amid ongoing conflict following the 2021 military coup. Kelley E. Currie, a U.S. official, expressed deep apprehension on Thursday regarding the repatriations and called on Malaysia to suspend further returns while collaborating with the United Nations to address the refugees’ circumstances.

Myanmar has been engulfed in civil war since the military seized power from the elected civilian government in 2021. This conflict has forced millions to flee their homes, exacerbating an already severe humanitarian crisis throughout the region.

According to state media in Myanmar, naval personnel and other authorities facilitated the returnees’ journey by providing medical care, food, and clothing. The details of the repatriations, including the number of individuals involved and the conditions leading to their return, have not been fully disclosed.

The calls for Malaysia to halt the repatriations reflect broader international concerns about the safety and human rights of refugees sent back to a country still experiencing widespread violence and instability. Efforts to engage with the UN aim to ensure proper protection and support for those affected by the crisis in Myanmar.