A rebel army in Myanmar has captured a major military headquarters in Rakhine state, dealing a blow to the ruling government. The Arakan Army, part of the anti-junta movement, took control of the western military command after intense fighting. This development is seen as a turning point in the conflict, but Myanmar’s military government has not commented on it.
The country has been in turmoil since the military seized power in early 2021, leading to protests and armed rebellion. The Arakan Army, part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, has been key in the resistance. They launched an offensive in October 2023 and have achieved significant victories, including seizing Lashio in August.
Rakhine state, where the headquarters was captured, is one of Myanmar’s poorest regions despite its natural resources. Fighting in the region resumed last November after a ceasefire collapsed, with the Arakan Army making territorial gains. However, some Rohingya activists claim the group has targeted their community, leading to many fleeing to Bangladesh.
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