Myanmar Churches Face Military Attacks as U.S. Resumes Diplomatic Talks
Christian communities in Myanmar are facing reports of pastors killed, churches burned and religious properties used by military-aligned forces as the United States renews diplomatic contact with the country’s military leadership.
In Chin state, Baptist pastor Dal Thawn Tuang, 49, was shot dead on September 14. The Burma Research Institute attributed the killing to military troops. He had served Lamzang Baptist Church for 22 years and is survived by his wife and two children.
In Kachin state, the institute documented a September 23 militia graduation ceremony inside Nant Mun Baptist Church. The Shanni Nationalities Army, which is aligned with the military, has reportedly used the property for training.
Separate reports said troops burned a Kachin Baptist church and nearby homes in Bhamo on October 12 as fighting intensified.
U.S. officials held talks with Myanmar’s government in September and again in October. Discussions reportedly addressed an American businessman’s release and scam operations targeting Americans.
The diplomatic engagement comes amid continuing conflict and displacement following the military’s 2021 coup. Military leader Min Aung Hlaing remains under U.S. sanctions.
References
International Christian Concern — October 19, 2026
persecution/2026/10/19/myanmars-military-intensifies-attacks-as-u-s-reopens-diplomatic-talks/
