Resistance forces step up attacks as junta attempts to regain territory

By Admin 17 Nov 2025

DMG Newsroom

17 November 2025, Mrauk-U

As Myanmar's military attempts to reclaim lost territory nationwide, revolutionary forces have launched renewed offensives against areas still under regime control, according to military analysts.

A coalition led by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), which had besieged Mawtaung in Tanintharyi Region for months, began its assault on November 11 and seized the town on November 14.

The resistance capture of Mawtaung came as the junta was scrambling to retake territory it had previously lost.

Military analysts say the regime is in a difficult position regarding Mawtaung, and that attacks on camps where communication lines are vulnerable could give resistance forces the upper hand.

"For the military, it's a dilemma. The revolutionary forces should attack these camps and other places where the mainland can easily be hit, where communication lines are cut off. If our side can attack, we can take Mawtaung with little effort. So, we have to fight. If our side can attack, it will be a military issue," said Captain Zin Yaw, a participant in the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Although the military is carrying out heavy offensives, it is also suffering significant losses from resistance counterattacks.

On November 14, more than 40 junta soldiers were captured by the KNLA and allied forces in the battle for Mawtaung. On November 11, the Arakan Army (AA) announced that about 70 prisoners of war had surrendered to the AA.

Revolutionary forces are pressing attacks in areas where the regime is weak, and analysts predict that a major offensive could also emerge in mainland Myanmar, where the National Unity Government (NUG) operates.

"The military regime has been able to regain some territory due to the TNLA's lack of cooperation with its allies. The fighting in Kanbalu now shows that a junta column has been broken in Myanmar's heartland. If the NUG leads a general offensive in mainland Myanmar with ethnic allies, the military balance will clearly change," said political analyst Maung Tamar.

Fighting is intensifying across the country as the regime launches fierce operations aimed at holding elections in cities controlled by revolutionary forces on December 28.

The Arakan Army says it is conducting defensive operations and counter offensives in response to junta attacks along the Arakan-Bago, Arakan-Magway and Arakan-Ayeyarwady borders, according to a statement issued on November 11.