Arakan Army Seizes Strategic Border Control

The Arakan Army, one of Myanmar's most powerful ethnic minority armed groups, has seized the last army outpost in the strategic town of Maungdaw, gaining full control of the 271-kilometer border with Bangladesh. This capture completes the group's dominance over the northern part of Rakhine state, marking a significant step in its quest for self-rule. The Arakan Army has been engaged in ongoing conflicts with Myanmar's military regime, which took power in 2021 after ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government. Recent fighting in Rakhine has prompted concerns about a resurgence of violence against the Rohingya Muslim minority, especially with reports of attempts by pro-junta militias to flee across the Naf River to Bangladesh. The situation remains tense with ongoing clashes and restricted access to the area, raising fears of further military retaliation. The Arakan Army's recent advances in Rakhine state signify a broader challenge to the military junta's control across Myanmar.