Thousands displaced by fighting in Kyaukphyu

By Admin 19 Nov 2025

DMG Newsroom

19 November 2025, Kyaukphyu

Escalating clashes between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army (AA) in Kyaukphyu Township, Arakan State, have forced 2,084 residents from 17 villages to flee their homes, according to Triple-T, an organization assisting internally displaced people (IDPs).

Junta troops have advanced into Thaungchaung, Gawtu and Yaynantaung villages since early November, prompting residents of 17 nearby villages - including Chaungphyar, Chaungwa and Chaungmyaung - to seek refuge in the Hsinbote, Sabahtar and Minyat areas.

"If we have to move, it is not possible to sleep in the fields due to the current weather conditions. There are urgent needs. It is also impossible to crowd people into religious buildings, schools and other structures given the current situation, with the Arakan Army targeting civilians and IDPs," said Triple-T founder Ko Victor.

The displaced are in urgent need of shelter, food, drinking water and medical assistance, according to Triple-T.

The IDP population includes newborns and pregnant women, who require baby supplies such as milk powder, diapers, medicine and nutritional supplements. Women also need menstrual products.

"There are also sick people among the IDPs, so medicine is in short supply. Another thing is rice. Even if you can go down to the stream and look for fish and frogs, you still need pots to cook them, and charcoal or firewood. They are running around with just the clothes on their backs, so there are many basic needs," Ko Victor added.

IDPs are struggling due to the lack of assistance from international organizations and limited support from local communities.

Following the outbreak of fighting in Kyaukphyu Township, the military regime has increased its use of surface attacks, artillery, airstrikes and drones, leaving local residents in a state of heightened fear.

"They are bombing not only places where fighting is taking place, but also areas where civilians live. The Myanmar Navy is firing so hard that people are afraid to stay. The military regime is not just shooting at the Arakan Army; it is shooting at everyone," said a woman in Kyaukphyu.

Fighting is ongoing near Yaynantaung, Minpyin and Chaungphyar villages, with the military regime advancing using large ground forces and air support.

Clashes between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army have been ongoing in Kyaukphyu Township since late February, displacing 23,710 people, according to Triple-T.