Narinjara News, 9 January 2025 

U Khaing Thukha, the spokesperson for the Arakan Army (AA), mentioned that whether the AA offensive will proceed or stop depends on the junta's reaction. 

"Our position has not altered, as I have earlier mentioned in the press. The continuation of the offensive hinges on the junta's reaction. We have released a statement; however, the junta persists in conducting airstrikes on civilian regions in Arakan State, indicating their stance," he stated. 

The Arakan Army (AA) has successfully taken control of all military camps in the three mountain passes of Arakan that link Arakan State to mainland Myanmar. According to local military sources, the AA has penetrated areas beyond the Arakan State border and reached regions close to the Arakan mountain, where conflicts are still taking place. 

In Arakan State, there are just three towns yet to be taken: Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung, where each side is keeping military preparedness. 

In response to Narinjara News regarding the current situation, U Khaing Thukha emphasized that the persistence of the AA offensive relies on the junta's actions. 

Residents of Shwe Thaung Yan have indicated that the Arakan Army (AA) and its allied forces are currently located near Shwe Thaung Yan Town in Pathein Township, Ayeyarwady Region. Junta forces are said to be withdrawing from village to village while maintaining their defenses. 

Continuing conflicts are also being reported in Ngathainggyaung, Yegyi, and Thabaung townships, which are situated at the foothills of the Arakan Mountains. In the meantime, the junta is getting ready for a major defense operation in Pathein. 

A source from the military stated, “To our knowledge, the junta is enhancing security in Pathein and establishing an extensive defensive position. They seem to be prioritizing the preparation of a significant defense in Pathein rather than in other towns near the Arakan mountain. 

The junta is additionally strengthening its presence in the Arakan mountain pass along the Taungup-Padaung road to safeguard the arms factories on the west bank of the Ayeyarwady River after the capture of the Taung Pon Gyi camp. 

This reinforcement consists of conscripts who have finished 45 days of military training.