Naypyidaw: Myanmar has been in turmoil since the 2021 military coup that ousted the country’s elected government. The coup sparked massive protests nationwide, which eventually escalated into an armed rebellion against the junta. Ethnic groups and citizen-led forces opposing military rule have formed a coalition that has succeeded significantly against junta forces. One of these forces, the Arakan Army (AA), has nearly taken control of the Rakhine state, which borders Bangladesh. The success of the Arakan Army has drawn attention from countries including India.
What Is the Arakan Army?
The Arakan Army is the military wing of the United League of Arakan (ULA), a political organisation representing the Buddhist population in Myanmar’s western Rakhine state. The AA and ULA aim to establish an autonomous region in Rakhine, including both the Buddhist Rakhine population and the Muslim community.
Arakan Army’s Military Success
Over the past 1.3 years, the Arakan Army has made significant progress on the battlefield, capturing dozens of towns and military outposts. Notably, the group seized the junta’s Western Command this week. This marks the second military command taken over by rebel groups this year.
The Rohingya Crisis and the Arakan Army
In 2017, Myanmar’s military launched a major crackdown on the Rohingya Muslim population in Rakhine. The operation forced around 750,000 Rohingyas to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh. Their return remains uncertain. Other countries condemned Myanmar for the mass killings and forced displacement, with America labelling it as genocide.
Although the Arakan Army claims to seek inclusivity with the Rohingya, it is complicated. In the past, AA has been accused of attacks against Rohingyas. The AA seeks independence for Rakhine but depends on other parts of Myanmar for food and medicine supplies. Without support from neighbouring countries, AA needs closer ties with India and Bangladesh.
Strengthening Ties with Bangladesh
Several reports suggest that the Arakan Army is trying to establish a connection with Bangladesh. While the Bangladeshi government has said that its policy regarding non-state actors prevents formal engagement with the AA, informal ties are potentially needed to ensure long-term border security and stability.
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