Clashes between military and ethnic minority forces in Myanmar are growing more intense. The United Nations Secretary-General is sounding the alarm about civilians being caught in the firing line.

Ethnic fighters are ramping up their attacks in western Rakhine State. The junta is responding with indiscriminate airstrikes and shelling, including an attack on February 29 that left 12 civilians dead.

Local media say military airstrikes on Monday in a village where Rohingya Muslims reside killed 23 people.

UN chief Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern. He says the worsening conflict is fueling displacement and compounding discrimination. Guterres is calling for sustained international attention.

The junta's leaders announced compulsory military service last month for young people. And they're set to hold a large-scale parade on March 27.