Aung San Suu Kyi, the detained former leader of Myanmar, met with a representative from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Monday, the humanitarian organization confirmed. The meeting marks a rare opportunity to assess the welfare of the 81-year-old, whose health and living conditions have been shrouded in uncertainty since the military overthrew her elected civilian government in February 2021.

The Myanmar military has consistently maintained that Suu Kyi remains in “good health,” but little independent verification has been possible during her detention. The absence of reliable information had raised concerns among her supporters and international observers alike.

Her son, Kim Aris, who recently called on the ruling junta to provide evidence of her well-being, expressed hope that the Red Cross visit would pave the way for expanded humanitarian access and potentially lead to her release. The meeting may represent a step toward addressing longstanding questions about her treatment under military rule.

Since the coup, Suu Kyi has faced multiple charges from the military-led authorities, who seek to justify their seizure of power and undermine her political influence. The ICRC visit comes amid ongoing international pressure on Myanmar’s junta to improve human rights conditions and engage in dialogue with detained political figures.

Details of the meeting have not been publicly disclosed beyond its confirmation by the Red Cross. Observers will be closely watching for any developments regarding Suu Kyi’s health and status following the visit, which holds significance for both her family and advocates of democratic governance in Myanmar.