Junta steps up airstrikes and ground offensive to retake Arakan Army-held village in Ponnagyun

By Admin 10 Nov 2026

DMG Newsroom

10 November 2026, Ponnagyun

The military junta is pressing ahead with a major ground offensive and intensified airstrikes in an attempt to recapture Kuntaung Village in Ponnagyun Township, which is controlled by the Arakan Army, according to military sources.

The junta began its renewed offensive on October 28, continuously reinforcing its ground troops and making extensive use of airstrikes, a military source said.

"Clashes near Kuntaung Village erupt every day. The military is pushing the offensive with thousands of troops, backed by extensive air and heavy artillery support. The revolutionary forces are holding their ground effectively using infantry, heavy weapons and drones," the source added.

Fighting is currently concentrated around Minchaung Bridge and Kuntaung Village. Despite suffering heavy casualties, junta forces continue to send reinforcements to sustain the offensive, according to military sources.

The junta previously launched an offensive toward Kuntaung Village on September 4 under the codename "Operation 4926" but was forced to retreat after encountering strong resistance.

Military sources said a second offensive began in late October, with junta forces deploying substantial reinforcements and receiving orders not to retreat.

Clashes continued through the morning of November 9, accompanied by heavy artillery shelling by junta forces.

"Ever since the new commander, Maj-Gen Kyaw Zaw, arrived, there has been an initial objective to retake Ponnagyun. Following the failure of the first Operation 4926 offensive, we have seen the military launch consecutive waves of attacks. Although Kuntaung is a village on the outskirts of Ponnagyun, it holds significant tactical importance because it provides a route for exerting military pressure toward the Sittwe–Ponnagyun border and Rathedaung," said a Ponnagyun resident.

Alongside its offensive in Kuntaung Village, the junta is also pressing its assault on Ngapyi Island in Werathani Township, where intense fighting continues.