Violence escalates at Myanmar-Thailand border, thousands flee

Tensions escalated at Myanmar‍‍`s eastern border with Thailand on Saturday, prompting both governments to acknowledge the conflict and the displacement of 3,000 civilians as rebels clashed with Myanmar junta troops near a border crossing.

Resistance fighters, along with ethnic minority rebels, seized control of the strategic trading town of Myawaddy on the Myanmar side of the border on April 11, dealing a blow to the Myanmar military‍‍`s authority and capabilities.

Myanmar‍‍`s state-run MRTV reported excessive shelling and bombing by militias and ethnic minority rebels against junta troops, leading to government forces retaliating with airstrikes in an attempt to restore stability. The report noted that the rebels retreated after sustaining significant losses.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed diligence over the situation and assured readiness to provide humanitarian aid if necessary. Over 3,000 individuals sought refuge in the Thai town of Mae Sot, according to data from Thailand‍‍`s military and provincial authorities.

Myanmar‍‍`s military, facing its most significant challenge since seizing power in 1962, is embroiled in various conflicts and struggling to stabilize the economy following the 2021 coup against Aung San Suu Kyi‍‍`s government.

The country remains in a state of civil unrest, with the military facing resistance from ethnic minority armies and a burgeoning resistance movement born out of anti-coup protests.

Prime Minister Srettha affirmed preparedness for any scenario, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Thailand‍‍`s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens.

The capture of Myawaddy and adjacent army posts represents a notable setback for the junta, given the town‍‍`s significance as a revenue source and a vital conduit for border trade exceeding $1 billion annually.

Thailand‍‍`s foreign ministry expressed hope for a swift resolution to the situation and urged Myanmar to prevent cross-border conflicts. Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura emphasized the need for Myanmar to respect Thai sovereignty and ensure the safety of individuals along the border.