Military Launches Airstrikes Targeting Rakhine Civilians After ‘Operation 4926’ Fails

Khaing Lu Hla (Roma Mray)

Narinjara, October 5, 2026

Local military analysts report that "Operation 4926," launched by the Myanmar military junta in Arakan (Rakhine) State, has failed to achieve success after completing its first month. Consequently, the military has resorted to intense airstrikes targeting Rakhine civilians.

The military initiated the operation at midnight on September 4, 2026, marking its one-month milestone on October 4.

During the operation, the Myanmar military deployed thousands of troops to launch an offensive against the southern part of Ponnagyun Township, an area controlled by the Arakan Army (AA). Forces advanced along at least five separate routes originating from Sittwe Township.

The operation involved the full use of air and naval fire support. Junta forces crossed the Min Chaung Bridge near Ah Myint Kyun to launch offensives against Kun Taung village, as well as Wa Bo and Taw Kan in Sittwe Township. Simultaneously, they advanced from Shwe Min Gan toward several locations in Ponnagyun Township, including Sabar Htar, Ye Yo Pyin, and Kha Maung Taw.

U Khine Thu Kha, spokesperson for the Arakan Army (AA), stated that the military's offensive targeted the southern part of Ponnagyun Township, where AA forces are stationed. He noted that junta forces advanced from at least seven locations along the waterway stretching from Ah Myint Kyun’s Min Chaung to the mouth of the Shwe Min Gan Creek.

However, due to defensive resistance from the Arakan Army, hundreds of junta troops were reportedly killed and many others wounded, forcing them to retreat.

Military analysts state that, having suffered severe setbacks and failed offensives, the Myanmar military is now resorting to aerial bombardments to pressure and inflict casualties on local Rakhine civilians.

Regarding the situation, Rakhine human rights activist U Myat Tun stated, "The military council led by Min Aung Hlaing launched an offensive in Rakhine under 'Operation 4926,' but it has failed. Facing massive casualties and losses, they have resorted to bombing and killing Rakhine civilians. I absolutely object to and condemn this killing of the Rakhine people."

A statement from the Arakan Army (AA) also indicates that the military has been launching a massive offensive against the AA under the name 'Operation 4926.' The offensive includes attacks from at least seven locations, spanning Sittwe and Kyaukphyu townships in Rakhine State, as well as the Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Magway regions, and southern Chin State.

After a month of fighting, the military council has suffered heavy casualties without achieving any strategic success. Many junta soldiers have been captured as prisoners of war alongside their weapons and ammunition.

On September 20, the Arakan Army (AA) released a report containing photographs and interviews documenting the status of these captives. Notably, testimony from at least three captured soldiers, including Private Aung Pyae Sone and a soldier named Michel,reveals that the military is forcing its troops to use drugs before entering combat.

Local reports indicate that the military council's operations have collapsed. Fierce fighting is currently underway as the AA launches a counter-offensive against Sittwe, having already captured several military outposts.

Unable to match the AA in direct combat and suffering severe losses, the junta has increasingly targeted Rakhine civilians with continuous airstrikes, causing daily casualties among the local population.

Recent attacks highlight the severity of these bombardments: On September 28, 2026, a Myanmar military airstrike on the crowded India Market and adjacent bridge in Kyauktaw Township killed 50 civilians and injured 58 others.

A few days later, on October 4, 2026, another aerial attack struck the Byar La displacement camp in Ponnagyun Township, killing six displaced civilians and injuring 11 more.

Civilian casualties continue to rise as other townships, including Rathedaung, Pauktaw, Thandwe, and Kyaukphyu, face relentless aerial bombardment.

Analysts observe that the military junta led by Min Aung Hlaing, having failed to capture Arakan State through conventional offensive means, is now deliberately targeting the Rakhine people. This shift suggests that military victory is no longer achievable for the junta, which appears to be facing imminent defeat.