Fighting for control of Kyaukphyu intensifies

By Admin 08 Jan 2026

DMG Newsroom

8 January 2026, Kyaukphyu

Fighting for control of Kyaukphyu, which began in February 2024 near the Danyawadi naval base and in Simaw, Ukin and Kyattein villages in Kyaukphyu Township, has intensified since early 2026, according to local and military sources.

Clashes between the military regime and the Arakan Army (AA) are particularly fierce near Gawtu, Kularbar and Thaingchaung villages, where a junta artillery regiment based in Kularbar Village has been providing continuous heavy weapons support.

"The military is retreating from Hsinbote and Chaungwa villages. Sometimes, the Arakan Army attacks three military-controlled areas at the same time. The military regime cannot move reinforcements back and forth, and we see them retreating with losses," said a Kyaukphyu resident familiar with the military situation.

Last year, the Arakan Army controlled areas up to within five miles of downtown Kyaukphyu. However, since November, it has been pushed back to a 14-mile perimeter around the island town, including Kularbar, Thaingchaung, Gawtu and Yaynantaung villages.

Since early December, the Arakan Army has taken control of areas previously occupied by junta troops in Thaingchaung, Minpyin and Hsinbote village-tracts and has stepped up its military operations.

"The Arakan Army's fighting style is difficult to predict. The military regime does not know where AA troops are stationed. As a result, junta forces are unable to advance and are gradually retreating as their troops suffer losses," said another local man in Kyaukphyu.

Following the election, the Arakan Army resumed its military operations in Kyaukphyu Township, deploying troops and launching sustained attacks on military regime positions.

Tens of thousands of residents from about 40 villages have been displaced by the military regime's operations, including the use of heavy weapons, airstrikes and naval attacks.

Displaced civilians are sheltering in monasteries, schools, forests and fields in Kyaukphyu, Ramree and other towns and villages, and are in urgent need of food and clothing.

Military observers say the Kyaukphyu battlefield is of strategic importance to both the military regime and the Arakan Army due to the presence of major Chinese-backed projects, raising the likelihood of intensified fighting this year.

The battle for Kyaukphyu has lasted nearly a year and remains one of the most significant and sustained confrontations in Arakan State.

Military regime artillery fire and airstrikes during the fighting in Kyaukphyu have killed at least 40 people and injured 80 others since February 20, 2025, bringing the total number of civilian casualties to no fewer than 120.

The Arakan Army has warned Kyaukphyu residents to remain vigilant, particularly against airstrikes, as the military regime continues to target civilian areas.