by Hafizur Rahman
May 11, 2026
The United Kingdom is reportedly reviewing possible sanctions against the Arakan Army (AA) and its political wing, the United League of Arakan (ULA), following growing allegations of abuses against Rohingya civilians in Rakhine State.
The discussions come amid increasing international scrutiny over reported violations linked to the Arakan Army during ongoing conflict in Myanmar. Human rights organizations and monitoring groups have documented allegations including unlawful killings, forced labor, arbitrary detention, extortion, and attacks affecting civilians.
In February 2026, Burma Campaign UK publicly called on the British government to impose sanctions on the Arakan Army similar to measures previously taken against the Myanmar Junta.
Since then, reports indicate that discussions within the UK government have expanded regarding whether existing Myanmar sanctions frameworks could also apply to the Arakan Army and ULA leadership.
Human rights advocates and international investigators have raised concerns about conditions faced by Rohingya communities in areas under Arakan Army influence, including reports of killings, displacement, movement restrictions, forced labor, and coercive practices.
Advocacy groups have also urged the United Nations Security Council to examine allegations of abuses committed by all parties involved in the conflict.
The Arakan Army has denied some accusations and has said its operations target security threats and armed opponents rather than civilians.
No formal sanctions decision has yet been announced by the British government.
The reported review reflects growing international attention on the conduct of armed actors in Rakhine State as concerns continue over civilian protection and accountability during the conflict.
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