Ethnic Rebels Take Control of Highway 3 in Myanmar

In Myanmar, ethnic minority rebels and pro-democracy fighters have achieved significant victories against the ruling junta, particularly along National Highway 3, which connects Mandalay to China. This strategic route has been largely seized by the rebels during an offensive launched a year ago, denying the junta lucrative tax revenues and threatening its military bases. Control of this highway, which has seen heavy fighting, serves as a morale booster for opposition forces as the civil war enters its fourth year. In addition to these developments, the Kachin Independence Army has recently taken control of Pangwa, a key rare-earth mining hub, underscoring the resource-rich nature of the conflict. The ongoing civil strife follows a coup in February 2021 that toppled the democratically elected government, leading to widespread protests and armed resistance from various ethnic groups. As the situation unfolds, the junta faces increasing challenges from these organized rebel factions, which are capitalizing on the chaos.