by Hafizur Rahman. Kyaukphyu, August 18, 2025
Heavy clashes have erupted in Kyaukphyu Township as the Myanmar Military Council launched large-scale assaults on Arakan Army (AA)-controlled bases at Lipkhamaung, Mintat Taung, and Nanfay Taung.
Ground, Air, and Naval Assaults
According to local military sources, the offensive began with intense ground troop movements, backed by airstrikes, naval bombardments, and drone attacks. The main target is Lipkhamaung camp, with junta forces firing heavy weapons from offshore warships while sending in ground reinforcements.
“The AA is fighting back fiercely. Clashes are happening daily below the hill near the No. 32 Police Battalion. At Nanfay Taung and Mintat Taung, they are mainly using drone bombs. The situation looks like it will escalate further,” a source told Rohingya Khobor.
The No. 32 Police Battalion, one of Kyaukphyu’s main defensive bases, has been reinforced by the military. But since the AA seized Nanfay Taung, supply lines to the battalion have been cut.
AA Counteroffensive and Rising Tensions
Although the AA had briefly paused operations in Kyaukphyu earlier in August, the junta’s attacks have forced the group to resume counteroffensives. Another source reported that the Military Council is using the Danyawaddy Naval Base as a stronghold, launching land operations and striking Lipkhamaung from the sea.
“The AA is squeezed between land and sea offensives, but they are not retreating. Fighting remains intense,” the source added.
Threat of Escalation Near Sittwe
Residents have reported a buildup of military warships off the coast of Sittwe.
“In the past few days, around 10 ships have been seen carrying troops and heavy weapons. This suggests fighting near Sittwe may soon escalate,” one resident said.
On August 11, AA officials ordered civilians in 36 villages between Sittwe and Pauktaw Township to evacuate due to the risk of airstrikes and artillery fire. Observers warn that these developments point to the possibility of large-scale battles around Sittwe in the coming days.
Wider Conflict Across Rakhine
The AA has also reported daily clashes in other parts of Rakhine and bordering regions, including Magway, Bago, and Ayeyarwady. Its spokesperson, U Khaing Thukha, has declared that the AA will continue fighting until it takes control of all townships in Arakan State.
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