By Hafizur Rahman
Sittwe, August 21, 2025, The Myanmar military council is reportedly preparing new offensives to retake several towns in Rakhine State currently under the control of the Arakan Army (AA). Sources say the targeted towns include Pauktaw, Ponnyar Kyun, and Maungdaw, with operations expected to begin before the upcoming national election.
Emergency Rule in AA-Held Areas
On July 31, the National Defense and Security Council declared 14 AA-controlled townships in Rakhine as emergency areas, placing them under direct military administration. The move signaled the junta’s intent to launch counteroffensives to reassert control.
Sources close to the army in Sittwe revealed that within 90 days, the military plans to reclaim at least five towns, beginning with operations in Pauktaw, Ponnyar Kyun, and Maungdaw. The initial focus is expected to be on clearing AA bases in Kyaukphyu and Sittwe, before expanding into surrounding areas.
Troop Buildup and Naval Activity
Thousands of soldiers have reportedly been deployed to Sittwe Township, and the number of navy vessels in the region has increased significantly. On Tuesday, naval forces stationed at Shwe Min Gan port in Sittwe fired heavy weapons toward Ponnyar Kyun Township.
“Right now, they are giving support by sea and air, and then they plan to push their ground forces in,” a military source said.
Pattern of Counteroffensives
Observers note that this strategy mirrors the junta’s approach in other parts of Myanmar. “The military has already launched similar counteroffensives. Just recently, they retook Dimawso town in Kayah State from resistance groups,” a source explained.
The buildup of troops, heavy weapons, and warships indicates the junta is preparing for large-scale battles in Rakhine, raising fears of further civilian displacement and escalating violence across the region.
