23 military-AA clashes in Arakan State over two weeks: research group

By Admin 09 Jul 2024

DMG Newsroom
9 July 2024, Sittwe

Arakan State had the most clashes between the military and ethnic armed groups and resistance forces out of 12 Myanmar regions and state monitored in the two weeks from June 19 to July 2, BNI-Myanmar Peace Monitor said in a recent report.

A total of 124 clashes were reported in the 12 regions and states during the period, with 23 clashes recorded in Arakan State, the report said.

The number of clashes increased as the Arakkha Army (AA) is currently battling for control of Maungdaw, Thandwe, Ann and Taungup townships in Arakan State.

The AA released a statement on July 7 describing the battle for control of Thandwe as reaching its “highest” point to date, and characterising the contest as among the most difficult fights it has faced in its bid for control of Arakan State.

“Ngapali and Thandwe will become an important link to mainland Myanmar. As for the flow of goods, if you go down from Thandwe, you will reach the Ayeyarwady Delta. That’s why the AA is trying to take over Thandwe,” said U Than Soe Naing, a political analyst.

At least 13 civilians were killed due to the regime’s airstrikes and artillery attacks during the two-week period documented, the report added.

About 600 civilians were forced to flee junta airstrikes and shellings during the period, the report said.

Those displaced are in need of food, shelter and medicine due to junta blockades of both land and water routes, according to social workers.

“IDPs [internally displaced people] are in urgent need of food, shelters and medicine during the rainy season. It is difficult for IDPs to buy medicine due to travel restrictions. We are concerned for the IDPs,” said a social worker in Thandwe Township.

As the fighting intensifies, the number of displaced people is increasing and the need for humanitarian assistance is significant. The regime’s travel restrictions and a lack of international aid make it more difficult for those fleeing the fighting.

Nearly eight months after regime-AA hostilities resumed in Arakan State, many residents are facing dire food and medicine shortages, with the junta blockades largely to blame. With the fighting ongoing, military tensions between the military and AA are running high in Ann, Taungup and Kyaukphyu townships.