Zone of conflict continues to expand in Arakan State

By Admin 25 Nov 2023

DMG Newsroom
25 November 2023, Sittwe

The battle zone is expanding in Arakan State as fighting between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army (AA) escalates in the area.

Currently, the two sides are fighting in seven townships in Arakan State including Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Pauktaw, Kyauktaw, Minbya and Myebon, as well as Paletwa in neighbouring Chin State.

Arakanese politician U Pe Than said: “It greatly depends on the AA whether the combat zone can expand in Arakan State. The AA has the strength to launch an offensive in every township. The regime has been depleted, and it can only be in a defensive position.”

Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes for fear of junta artillery strikes since the renewed fighting broke out on November 13.

The regime has also imposed strict travel restrictions in Arakan State since November 13, and civilians and displaced people are facing food shortages as a result.

A woman who fled from Pyichar Village in Myebon Township said: “I have around five litres of rice given by villagers [of the village where I am taking shelter now]. I don’t know what to do when this runs out.”

Meanwhile, the regime has been arresting members of local and international nongovernmental organisations and civil society organisations in Arakan State, effectively barring humanitarian operations in the state.

Despite demands from the United Nations, the regime continues to impose travel restrictions on aid agencies and charities.

“It is unacceptable that they have blockaded roads in all the places, whether there is fighting or not. It appears they are targeting civilians. It is a completely disgraceful act,” said a social activist in Arakan State.

Since the renewed fighting broke out on November 13, the AA had seized four border guard outposts as of November 22. The ethnic armed group said it has also occupied over 40 junta positions including border police outposts and police stations abandoned by junta personnel.