Myanmar Civil War Escalates on Myawaddy Border with Thousands Fleeing Violence

In recent days, there have been intense fighting between the military and an ethnic rebel group near Myawaddy in Myanmar. The conflict has been ongoing for two consecutive days, with residents of the city either hiding or attempting to cross the border to escape the violence. According to a local resident who preferred to remain anonymous, there have been skirmishes throughout the night and into the morning, with sounds of artillery, explosions, and planes flying overhead.

The Karen National Union, an armed ethnic minority group, is seeking control of a crucial trading hub on the Thai border near Myawaddy. The militia claimed to have captured an important military base in Thingannyinaung, located about ten kilometers west of Myawaddy, with over 600 soldiers, police officers, and their family members surrendering. Fighting has also been taking place within Myawaddy itself since Tuesday, although the junta still appears to be holding sway over the city.

The escalation of violence has prompted many people to flee. Thailand has announced its willingness to host up to 100,000 refugees in Mae Sot, a city across the border in Thailand. Reports indicate that approximately a thousand individuals were waiting at the border crossing on Wednesday. Since the military coup on February 1st 2021, Myanmar has been embroiled in civil war with various rebel groups rising up against the military rulers. In recent months, the conflict has intensified and reached regions that were previously unaffected by violence.