In a significant development for the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, the Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic armed group, has declared full control over the key region of Maungdaw, situated along the Bangladesh border. This assertion comes amid intensifying pressures on the military junta, which is grappling with opposition forces across multiple fronts in the country.
The situation has escalated dramatically since November of last year when the AA commenced attacks on government security forces, subsequently breaking a ceasefire that had largely endured since the junta’s coup in 2021. The combat in western Rakhine state has seen the AA seize significant territory, leading to a near-total blockade of Maungdaw’s local governance. This region is strategically vital, sitting adjacent to important port projects backed by China and India, as well as serving as a refuge for the vulnerable Rohingya population.
A statement released by the AA highlighted their recent military achievements, asserting that they have “completely controlled the whole region of Maungdaw” since Sunday. This marked the culmination of nearly two months of fierce fighting, which resulted in the fall of the last junta base in the area. The insurgent group claimed to have taken several junta soldiers into custody, including the commander of the base.
Accompanying their announcement, the AA released a video purportedly showing Myanmar security personnel surrendering, exiting damaged structures while holding white flags, which is often recognized as a symbol of truce. Efforts to independently verify these claims have yet to be accomplished, and requests for further comment from an AA spokesperson are ongoing.
Maungdaw town is located along the Naf river, which delineates the border between Myanmar and Bangladesh, and is representative of the region home to many members of the persecuted Rohingya minority. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the junta has not provided any official comments regarding the ongoing clashes in Maungdaw.
In recent months, the AA has also reported gaining control of the town of Buthidaung, situated approximately 25 kilometers away from Maungdaw. However, this control has been met with accusations from several Rohingya diaspora groups, who allege that the AA has forced many Rohingya to flee, subsequently looting and torching their homes. The AA has dismissed these accusations as mere “propaganda.”
The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Rakhine state has drawn attention from international organizations, including the United Nations. A recent report from the UN warns that the region is on the brink of famine, predicting a complete collapse of the local economy due to ongoing violence disrupting both commerce and agricultural activities. The UN Development Programme forecasted that if current levels of food insecurity continue unresolved, the region could experience famine conditions by mid-2025, posing an urgent call for intervention.
