Resistance withdraws from Tigyaing as junta advances in Sagaing

Anti-junta resistance forces have withdrawn from the strategic town of Tigyaing in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region after a sustained military offensive, marking a shift in momentum in one of the country’s most critical conflict zones, sources say.The retreat follows the loss of Tagaung, a strategic town south of Tigyaing in Mandalay Region, which allowed junta forces to advance north along the Ayeyarwady River. Tigyaing has been one of the fiercest battlegrounds in Myanmar’s conflict, with forces led by the National Unity Government and allied groups, including the Arakan Army, fighting the military for control. Since late 2023, the two sides had each held roughly half the town after months of heavy fighting.In recent days, however, resistance units withdrew from the urban area as junta troops advanced, taking control of the town while clashes continued in surrounding rural areas. The fall of Tigyaing came as key resistance allies were stretched across multiple fronts, with the Kachin Independence Army tied down in fighting in Katha and Bhamo, limiting its ability to reinforce the town. A resistance official said shortages of ammunition and weapons, along with the military’s increasingly effective use of drones, were decisive factors in the setback.“The main issue is weapons and ammunition shortages. At the same time, the military is using drones very effectively,” the official said, adding that these challenges have contributed to resistance forces losing previously held territory. Junta backed outlets on March 26 showed military troops positioned on the Ayeyarwady River bridge at the entrance to Tigyaing town, Sagaing Region, following their advance into the area after days of heavy fighting. (Photo: Supplied) Junta forces have expanded their offensive footprint since retaking northern parts of Mandalay Region late last year, using ground assaults supported by airstrikes and drone attacks.Tigyaing’s strategic location, linking Sagaing Region with northern Shan and Kachin states, makes it a critical node for supply lines and troop movements.The military is now expected to press further north and west, potentially targeting nearby townships including Katha, Indaw and Banmauk, areas that remain contested or partially under resistance control.Despite continuing to hold several towns across Sagaing Region, resistance forces are facing mounting challenges as the junta regains territory in what has become one of the war’s most critical battlegrounds.

Resistance withdraws from Tigyaing as junta advances in Sagaing

Loss of Tigyaing highlights growing battlefield pressure on anti-junta forces, who cite ammunition shortages and drone warfare as major setbacks

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