Rakine State Civil War and the Arakan Army’s Abuses Against the Rohingya

Rakine State Civil War and the Arakan Army’s Abuses Against the Rohingya

Rakine state Map 

The ongoing civil war in Rakine State has brought immense suffering to its people, particularly the Rohingya community. While the conflict between Myanmar’s military junta and the Arakan Army (AA) has intensified, the Rohingya have been caught in the middle, facing abuses from both sides. The AA, despite claiming to fight for the liberation of Rakine State, has increasingly targeted Rohingya civilians, further worsening their plight.

The Civil War in Rakine State

Since November 2023, Rakine State has become a battleground between the Myanmar military and the AA. The AA, which seeks greater autonomy for the Rakine people, has launched large-scale attacks, capturing significant territories. The junta, in response, has used heavy artillery and airstrikes, causing massive civilian casualties. Entire villages have been destroyed, and thousands have been displaced, seeking shelter in makeshift camps.

Amidst this war, Rohingya communities in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, and other areas have suffered immensely. Already victims of the 2017 genocide by the Myanmar military, they now face new threats from the AA, which sees them as outsiders rather than rightful residents of Rakine.

Arakan Army’s Abuses Against the Rohingya

The AA’s increasing control over Rakine State has led to rising persecution of the Rohingya. Reports indicate that the group has forcibly taken over Rohingya homes, especially in Buthidaung and Maungdaw. Many Rohingya families, who had lived in these areas for generations, have been driven out, their properties confiscated and given to Rakine settlers.

Additionally, the AA has imposed strict movement restrictions on Rohingya people, preventing them from traveling freely or seeking medical care. There have also been cases of forced recruitment, where young Rohingya men are taken and forced to serve in AA forces under the threat of violence.

The Humanitarian Crisis and the World’s Silence

The humanitarian situation in Rakine State is worsening by the day. Thousands of Rohingya are now trapped, unable to escape the conflict due to restrictions imposed by both the junta and the AA. Those who attempt to flee face the risk of being caught in crossfire, arrested, or even killed.

Despite these grave human rights violations, the international community has largely remained silent. While organizations such as the UN and human rights groups have documented abuses, there has been little action to stop the suffering of the Rohingya people.

Conclusion

The civil war in Rakine State has once again placed the Rohingya in a vulnerable position, facing oppression from both the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army. The world must recognize and address these ongoing abuses to prevent another humanitarian disaster. The Rohingya deserve protection, justice, and the right to live in their homeland without fear.

If this crisis continues to be ignored, history will repeat itself, and the suffering of the Rohingya will only deepen. The international community, human rights organizations, and media must raise their voices to hold the perpetrators accountable and push for immediate intervention.