Iran Press/ Asia: In a significant development, the TNLA declared that it has captured Hsipaw, a town of 20,000 residents in Myanmar's Shan State, following weeks of intense combat. The town sits on the strategic highway linking Mandalay to the Chinese border, a vital trade route for multi-million dollar commerce between the two countries.
A spokesperson for the group confirmed that no Myanmar military forces remain in Hsipaw. A local resident also verified that the town is now under the control of anti-junta forces, although there is widespread concern among the population about potential airstrikes by the Myanmar military in retaliation.
The Myanmar military has not yet commented on the situation, and independent confirmation has been hindered by an internet blackout in the region.
Myanmar has been mired in conflict since the military coup in 2021, which ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup has led to widespread unrest, with at least 5,350 civilian deaths and over 3.3 million displaced, according to the United Nations. Furthermore, over 27,400 individuals have been arrested since the military takeover, exacerbating the country's humanitarian crisis.
This latest development underscores the deepening conflict and growing resistance against the military junta, as ethnic armed groups continue to challenge the government's control over key areas in the country.
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