YANGON, MYANMAR – The enduring conflict in Myanmar has arrived at a critical crossroads as the military government faces its most formidable challenge since the coup in 2021. A concerted assault in the country’s northern territories by a united front of ethnic armed groups has highlighted the junta’s struggles in maintaining its grip on power.

The clashes have been escalating since the tail end of October, marking a severe intensification in the conflict. This has resulted in a significant number of Thai nationals finding themselves stranded amidst the skirmishes in northern Myanmar. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently mobilizing efforts to rescue and repatriate these individuals.

In the midst of this turmoil, PetroChina, a major player in the global energy sector, has seized control of 119 retail fuel stations in Myanmar and has plans to take over an additional 53. This development unfolds at a time when Myanmar is wrestling with political instability and a surge in violence.

The conflict has also exacted a heavy toll on the civilian population. The United Nations reports that recent hostilities in Myanmar’s Rakhine state have displaced an estimated 26,000 people. Moreover, approximately 250 Rohingya refugees in Indonesia were compelled back to sea.

The situation in Myanmar is rapidly evolving, with the junta facing increasing pressure from both internal and external forces. As the conflict worsens, the international community watches with apprehension, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.