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As an alliance of ethnic armed groups launched an offensive against the military in Myanmar two weeks ago, nearly 50,000 people have been displaced in the ongoing conflict, according to the United Nations. The fighting, concentrated in northern Shan state near the Chinese border, is considered the most significant military challenge to the junta since its seizure of power in 2021.
The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and Arakan Army (AA) claim to have captured numerous military outposts, disrupting vital trade routes to China. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reported that by November 9, almost 50,000 people in northern Shan had been forcibly displaced.
In the area around Shan state's Lashio township, where the military's northeastern command is located, internet and phone services have been disrupted, hampering humanitarian responses. UNOCHA noted that restrictions on transport and limited cash availability are impeding local humanitarian groups' efforts to provide aid.
Additional clashes between the military and its opponents in Sagaing region and Kachin state have led to the displacement of another 40,000 people since early November, according to UNOCHA.
While the military has made minimal comments on the offensive, the junta-appointed president warned earlier this week that the country could face division if the military couldn't "manage" the fighting. The challenging terrain and communication difficulties in the remote, jungle-clad region make it challenging to verify casualty numbers.
Beijing, a key ally and arms supplier to the junta, confirmed Chinese casualties resulting from the Myanmar clashes on Tuesday, without specifying whether they were killed or wounded or the exact location of the incident.
