Myanmar Junta Escalates Military Operations in KNU Brigade 6 Territory Following Peace Forum

The Myanmar military has intensified operations and reinforced troop deployments across Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 6 territory, following a junta-sponsored peace forum in Hpa-An, according to local sources.

In recent days, the military has dispatched troop convoys to Lay Kay Kaw, Hpalu, and Minletpan while stepping up operations around Kawkareik and Kyondoe townships, where it has long struggled to establish territorial control.

“The junta talks peace at the negotiating table, but on the ground, it continues aggressive operations,” a Karen resistance source told KIC. “Reinforcements are arriving regularly in Hpalu and Minletpan.”

Clashes in southern Myawaddy Township have escalated since 2025, as the junta continues routing forces from Mon State and Hpa-An to active combat zones.

Alongside military maneuvers, the regime is attempting to re-establish administrative control in southern Myawaddy. General Saw San Aung, commander-in-chief of the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), noted that recent deployments included police personnel.

“If the military dictatorship establishes a foothold, driving them out will not be easy,” General Saw San Aung said. “Regardless of heavy casualties, the regime will continue sending troops. Police battalions were included in recent deployments, likely to restart administrative operations.”

The escalation has severely disrupted daily life in southern Kawkareik Township, where students are struggling to sit for their first-semester examinations. Some students have relocated to safer areas to continue their studies.

The regime's Karen State government hosted the peace forum in Hpa-An on September 26 and 27, claiming it aimed to reduce conflict and foster trust.

However, mainly the junta-aligned armed groups and political figures attended the forum.

While discussions focused on conflict resolution, IDP resettlement, and employment, analysts dismissed the forum as a hollow initiative, noting that key revolutionary organizations boycotted the forum.