Joint Myanmar resistance offensive intensifies across Bago region as multiple fronts collapse

Mizzima

A massive, coordinated offensive by joint resistance forces has expanded into 26 townships across the eastern and western districts of Bago Region, according to high-level military sources.

The operation, which began in early January 2026, has seen six consecutive days of intense clashes that have fundamentally shifted the frontline, forcing the Military Commission to yield significant ground.

The conflict is currently centred along three critical axes: the primary Yangon–Pyay highway, the historic old Yangon–Mandalay Road leading toward the administrative capital of Naypyidaw, and the strategically sensitive border region between Rakhine and Bago.

This escalation is part of a broader campaign orchestrated by the National Unity Government (NUG) known as the ‘Sittaung River Valley Victory Operation,’ which falls under the direct command of the Bago Region Military Command of the People’s Defense Force’s Military Region 2.

Ko Aung Hein, Acting Battalion Commander of the Royal Peacock Battalion (P-29913) under Division 26, told Mizzima that fighting intensified from 9 to 15 January, ahead of the Military Commission’s planned election Phase 2.

“The fighting intensified from 9 January, mainly toward Tawkyweinn Town. Military checkpoints are positioned around Penwegon. A total of 14 coordinated attacks were carried out, and we have confirmed that an additional 26 attacks took place as of 16 January,” he said.

According to geographical assessments, clashes have occurred in Phyu, Kanyutkwin, Penwegon, Kyaukdaga, Nyaung Chay Htauk, Nyaung Lay Pin, Oktwin, Nattalin, Zeegon, Minhla, and Htantabin townships in western Bago Region. In addition, People’s Defense Force units along the Yangon–Pyay Road, together with local defense forces and People’s Defense Organizations, are operating in coordination. On the Rakhine–Bago border, the Arakan Army (AA) is leading joint resistance forces in Padaung Township.