Myanmar rebel group says it withdraws from key town on Thai border
A Myanmar rebel faction has pulled back its forces from a town located along the Thailand border. This withdrawal follows a counterattack by soldiers belonging to the ruling junta, from whom the rebels had recently seized control of a crucial trading post.
The spokesperson for the Karen National Union (KNU) described the move as a "temporary retreat" from the town of Myawaddy. The decision was prompted by the reoccupation of the area by junta forces. Myawaddy serves as a pivotal strategic point facilitating over $1 billion worth of foreign trade annually.
The armed wing of the KNU, known as the Karen National Liberation Army, expressed their determination to confront and neutralize the junta troops and their reinforcements, who have advanced towards Myawaddy.
This development comes amidst heightened tensions, with recent clashes in Myawaddy prompting the displacement of approximately 3,000 civilians. While many of these individuals have since returned, concerns remain regarding the potential spillover of violence across the border, as highlighted by the Thai government's calls for restraint from Myanmar.
Photographs circulating on social media platforms affiliated with the junta depict soldiers raising the Myanmar flag at a military base previously under the control of the KNU. This base had recently seen the hoisting of the rebel group's banner.
The junta, in power since a coup three years ago, faces mounting pressure as it grapples with challenges to its authority, including the loss of control over key border regions to various rebel factions.
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