AA Commander Declares 2027 Deadline for Decisive Battles — Sittwe Siege Tightens Ahead of Thingyan Festival

Arakan Army Commander-in-Chief Major General Twan Mrat Naing (also known as Aung Myo Kyaw) issued a strategic directive ordering AA troops to 'fight with the conviction that the remaining decisive battles must be won and completed before the end of this year and before the end of 2027,' signaling an intensified campaign to complete the conquest of Rakhine State and potentially expand into adjacent regions. As of April 12, AA fighters maintained positions within approximately 2 km of Sittwe city center, with the Shwe Min Gan Naval Base — struck on March 23 killing an estimated 30–40 junta soldiers — remaining contested. The SAC is defending Sittwe with approximately 2,000 infantry and 1,000 naval troops supported by 10 warships. In preparation for the Thingyan Water Festival (beginning April 13), the AA issued 6 public conduct guidelines prohibiting large gatherings in AA-controlled territory during the festival period — reflecting its role as the de facto administrative authority across most of Rakhine State. The AA's strategic 2027 deadline declaration represents a significant escalation in stated ambition, suggesting the organization intends to complete its campaign before a potential diplomatic settlement can consolidate the junta's cosmetic civilian transition.