By Hafizur Rahman
August 9, 2025 — Buthidaung, Arakan State
Civilians living near Arakan Army (AA) bases in Buthidaung Township say they are being blocked from relocating to safer areas, despite growing fears of airstrikes by the Myanmar military. Residents allege that the AA is deliberately keeping them in place to use as human shields, a practice condemned under international law.
Tensions have escalated since the junta announced martial law on July 31, with many locals expecting imminent airstrikes on AA positions.
“Every day our fear grows,” said one resident. “We know the military might target these areas. That’s why we want to move away from the bases—but the AA is not allowing us to go anywhere.”
AA Urges Residents to Stay Put
On the morning of August 9, senior AA officials reportedly visited Nyaung Chaung and held a meeting with both Rohingya and Rakhine community members. According to attendees, AA officers urged residents not to believe “rumors” of an incoming military offensive and to remain in their homes.
“Don’t worry about anything. Stay calm. We will never let the military invade, and if they try, we will fight them back,” an AA officer told the gathering, according to a Rohingya woman who requested anonymity for security reasons.
Risk of Civilian Casualties Grows
Despite assurances from AA leaders, residents say their proximity to military positions makes them highly vulnerable. With the Myanmar military’s airpower and artillery capability, locals fear that civilian neighborhoods could be caught in the crossfire if hostilities resume.
Reports from multiple sources suggest that the AA is refusing evacuation requests, effectively forcing residents to remain in high-risk zones.
A military and political analyst criticized the strategy, noting that the use of civilians as human shields is not only a violation of human rights, but also a serious breach of international humanitarian law, potentially constituting a war crime.
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