Operation 1111

The first Karenni concurrent operation that was announced were Operation 1107, with fighting reported in places like Mese outside Loikaw.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=8 November 2023 |title=Operation 1107 launched in Karenni State: Three military camps captured – killing at least 70 soldiers |url=https://mpapress.com/news/33564/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108085341/https://mpapress.com/news/33564/ |archive-date=8 November 2023 |access-date=8 November 2023 |website=MPA}} Shortly afterwards, in November 2023, Operation 1111 was announced for Loikaw.{{Cite news |date=12 November 2023 |title=စစ်ကောင်စီတိုက်လေယာဉ် ၁စင်း ပစ်ခတ်ခံရပြီး ပျက်ကျ |language=Burmese |work=DVB |url=https://burmese.dvb.no/post/624562 |access-date=12 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118235103/https://burmese.dvb.no/post/624562|archive-date=18 November 2023}}

By February–March most sources were already using Operation 1111,{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/karenni-resistance-urges-civilians-not-to-return-to-loikaw-during-operation-1111/|title=Karenni Resistance Urges Civilians Not to Return to Loikaw During Operation 1111|date=23 January 2024 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/fighting-resumes-in-myanmars-loikaw-as-karenni-resistance-forces-return.html|title=Fighting Resumes in Myanmar's Loikaw as Karenni Resistance Forces Return|date=8 July 2024 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2024/3/26/fighting-spirit-how-myanmars-armed-resistance-is-taking-new-ground|title= 'Fighting spirit': How Myanmar's resistance is taking new ground}} though the Washington Post used "The battle for Loikaw" for operation 1111 and "October offensive" for Operation 1027.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/02/14/myanmar-war-military-rebels-surrenders/|title=Rebel offensive taking toll on Myanmar military's cohesion, soldiers say|newspaper=The Washington Post }}

As of June–July 2024 most sources seem to have defaulted to using exclusively Operation 1111 for all Kayah/Karenni State related fighting.{{cite web|url= https://theatlasnews.co/latest/2024/07/09/karenni-ethnic-armies-begin-counteroffensive-to-capture-kayah-state-capital/ |title= Karenni Ethnic Armies Begin Counteroffensive to Capture Kayah State Capital|date= 11 July 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/fighting-resumes-in-myanmars-loikaw-as-karenni-resistance-forces-return.html|title=Fighting Resumes in Myanmar's Loikaw as Karenni Resistance Forces Return|date=8 July 2024 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/resistance-forces-attack-junta-column-heading-karenni-capitalnear-shan-karenni-border|title= Resistance Forces Attack Junta Column Heading for Karenni CapitalNear Shan-Karenni Border}} Pro-Tatmadaw sources use generic terms to describe the karenni fighters as "terrorists".{{cite web| url= https://www.gnlm.com.mm/rehabilitation-gaining-momentum-in-loikaw-of-kayah-state/|title=Rehabilitation gaining momentum in Loikaw of Kayah State|date=14 July 2024 }}

By August 2024, even some pro-Tatmadaw sources had started employing the term Operation 1111, though in combination with the generic label terrorist.{{cite web|url=https://npnewsmm.com/news/66c55fce04f2e11a765cbbdd|title=Displaced residents return to war-torn Loikaw amidst reconstruction}}

The term has been used as of November 2024, despite changes on the battlefields since the launch of Operation 1111.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-builds-karenni-state-forces-ahead-of-possible-offensive.html

|title=Myanmar Junta Builds Karenni State Forces Ahead of Possible Offensive|date=5 November 2024 }} The term still seeing usage as of March 2025.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-state-residents-on-alert-as-regime-steps-up-counteroffensive/

|title=Karenni State residents on alert as regime steps up counteroffensive|date=13 March 2025 }}

June 2025, Operation 1111 is mentioned in past-tense, in reference to first phase of this article.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/airstrike-kills-7-civilians-as-fighting-continues-in-karenni-state/

|title=Airstrike kills 7 civilians as fighting continues in Karenni State }}

What is also noteworthy is the sources keep using Operation 1111 for the fighting in Kayah since November 2023, when earlier there were articles for separate battles of Loikaw for the separate bouts of fighting, like Battle of Loikaw (2021) and Battle of Loikaw (2022).

{{Further|Battle of Loikaw (2021)|Battle of Loikaw (2022)|Pekon clashes|Battle of Demoso (2022)|Battle of Mese}}

Loikaw has been described as the military's nerve center for Kayah State. Its loss could jeopardize the regime's control of much of the state. It has been the site of multiple battles during the civil war: the first battle in 2021 that ended in a ceasefire, and another battle in January–February 2022 that ended inconclusively.

Before the start of the 2023 battle, the junta had two battalions deployed to defend the city.{{cite news |author=Kyaw Kha |date=28 November 2023 |title=Operation 1111 'Close to Securing All of Kayah State for Myanmar Resistance' |url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/in-person/interview/operation-1111-close-to-securing-all-of-kayah-state-for-myanmar-resistance.html |work=The Irrawaddy |language=en}}

Starting at 4:00am on 11 November, KNDF and KA forces started attacking military bases around Loikaw in an operation dubbed "Operation 1111". The coalition forces captured seven military bases and shot down an aircraft.

By 13 November, the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF) claimed it had taken several positions of the Tatmadaw. It was also reported that a total of 16 civilians had died in the fighting. The Irrawaddy reported that "volunteers estimate that around 35,000 people—including people displaced by previous conflicts—need to evacuate from Loikaw as a result of the recent fighting. The town is usually home to 50,000 residents. The capital is also the junta's key stronghold and center of administrative control in Kayah State."{{cite web |url= https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karenni-armed-group-seizes-seven-myanmar-junta-bases-since-saturday.html|title=Karenni Armed Group Seizes Seven Myanmar Junta Bases Since Saturday|author= |date=13 November 2023 |work= The Irrawaddy|access-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119124756/https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karenni-armed-group-seizes-seven-myanmar-junta-bases-since-saturday.html|archive-date=19 November 2023}}

By 15 November, there were reports of heavy fighting in Loikaw, with many civilians still trapped in their homes amid the ongoing fighting.{{cite web |url= https://www.ucanews.com/news/civilians-trapped-amid-fighting-in-myanmars-kayah-state/103272|title=Civilians trapped amid fighting in Myanmar's Kayah state|author= |date=15 November 2023 |work=Union of Catholic Asian News |access-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119162342/https://www.ucanews.com/news/civilians-trapped-amid-fighting-in-myanmars-kayah-state/103272|archive-date=19 November 2023}} More than 34 civilians were killed, and 50 were injured in Loikaw from retaliatory strikes from the junta's forces. During the fighting, 110 junta soldiers were killed and 38 surrendered.{{Cite web |last=Irrawaddy |first=The |date=15 November 2023 |title=Kayah Resistance Seizes Myanmar Junta Bases in State Capital |url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/kayah-resistance-seizes-myanmar-junta-bases-in-state-capital.html |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=The Irrawaddy |language=en-US |archive-date=16 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116062451/https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/kayah-resistance-seizes-myanmar-junta-bases-in-state-capital.html |url-status=live }}

By 18 November, the EAOs further gained control in Loikaw, including the Loikaw District Court and Loikaw University. The groups took 38 prisoners of war, who surrendered after the rebels cornered them before any air support could arrive. It was reported the number of displaced civilians had reached 40,000 and at least 50 dead.

On 22 November it was reported that 315+ fighters and civilians on both sides had died during the first 10 days of Operation 1111 and that 100,800 people had been in displaced Kayah state, with 40,000 of those from Loikaw. The KNDF claimed to have taken further outposts from the Tatmadaw.

The fighting had reached the downtown of Loikaw by 23 November.{{cite web |url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/battle-for-control-of-myanmar-state-capital-escalating-at-alarming-rate.html|title= Battle For Control of Myanmar State Capital Escalating at 'Alarming Rate'|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123204713/https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/battle-for-control-of-myanmar-state-capital-escalating-at-alarming-rate.html|work=The Irrawaddy|date=23 November 2023|archive-date=23 November 2023}} In an interview with The Irrawaddy on 28 November, the KNDF's deputy commander-in-chief Marwi claimed that the rebels already controlled 80% of Kayah state and had surrounded Loikaw, where an interim Karenni government was being established.{{cite web|last=Kha|first=Kyaw|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/in-person/interview/operation-1111-close-to-securing-all-of-kayah-state-for-myanmar-resistance.html|title=Operation 1111 'Close to Securing All of Kayah State for Myanmar Resistance'|work=The Irrawaddy|date=28 November 2023|access-date=28 November 2023}}{{cite news |date=29 November 2023 |work=BNI Online |url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/juntas-administration-ousted-karenni-state-loikaw-still-war-zone |title=Junta's Administration Ousted From Karenni State- Loikaw still a war-zone |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129084019/https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/juntas-administration-ousted-karenni-state-loikaw-still-war-zone |archive-date=29 November 2023}} With its ground forces in Kayah State weakened, on 29 November, the junta began to resort to airstrikes against Loikaw. In a report to the State Administration Council, Chairman Min Aung Hlaing claimed that the Tatmadaw had retaken the city, but these claims were denied the following day by Marwi.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-relying-on-airstrikes-in-loikaw-fighting-resistance.html|title=Myanmar Junta Relying on Airstrikes in Loikaw Fighting: Resistance|work=The Irrawaddy|date=30 November 2023|access-date=4 December 2023}}

Lin Lin, a leader of the People's Defence Force in Kayah, stated that most of his fighters had been motivated to take Loikaw as they are from the city and wanted to return to their homes; while reporting that the Tatmadaw was on the defensive. On 2 December, KNDF chairman Khun Bedu reported that the Tatmadaw had retreated to the city police station.{{cite web|url=https://www.digitaljournal.com/world/myanmar-pro-democracy-fighters-battle-to-take-state-capital/article|title=Myanmar pro-democracy fighters battle to take state capital|work=Agence France-Presse|date=2 December 2023|access-date=4 December 2023|via=Digital Journal}} By this time, the military regime's administration was reportedly no longer functional in the city. Loikaw's Naung Yar and Daw Au Khu residential wards saw ongoing clashes and rebel forces claimed to have captured 50 soldiers and several weapons and ammunition.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/clashes-fires-rage-in-loikaw-as-resistance-continues-push-to-oust-myanmar-junta-forces.html|title=Clashes, Fires Rage in Loikaw as Resistance Continues Push to Oust Myanmar Junta Forces|date=December 2023 }}

On the 9th, Pyu Township was also reported to be under attack by insurgents. Pekon Township that neighbors Kayah State, but is in Shan State is also seeing fighting, with Demoso and Loikaw continuing seeing combat.{{cite web|url= https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/conflicts-in-numbers/in-its-seventh-week-operation-1027-continues-expanding-in-myanmar.html|title= In Its Seventh Week, Operation 1027 Continues Expanding in Myanmar|date= 9 December 2023|access-date= 11 December 2023|archive-date= 10 December 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20231210161101/https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/conflicts-in-numbers/in-its-seventh-week-operation-1027-continues-expanding-in-myanmar.html|url-status= live}}

On 10 December, the KNDF took control of the main police headquarters in Loikaw.[https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-loses-over-a-dozen-troops-more-bases-in-three-days-of-resistance-attacks.html Myanmar Junta Loses Over a Dozen Troops, More Bases in Three Days of Resistance Attacks]

On 11 December the Irrawaddy stated "The regime's Regional Command Center, Loikaw General Hospital, Nursing and Midwife School, the State Government Office and some religious buildings are still occupied by junta troops, according to resistance forces."{{cite web|title=Karenni Resistance Marks Successful Month of Attacks on Myanmar Junta|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karenni-resistance-marks-successful-month-of-attacks-on-myanmar-junta.html|publisher=The Irrawaddy|date=2023-12-11}} By 18 December, anti-junta forces were reported to have control of 85% of Loikaw.{{cite web | url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/resistance-forces-claim-control-of-85-percent-of-karenni-state-capital/ | title=Resistance forces claim control of '85 percent' of Karenni State capital | date=19 December 2023 }}

As of 15 December, fighting in Mobye is continuing and the insurgents claim to have taken 75% of the town. At least 5 civilians were reported to have been killed as a result of the fighting, with much of the town abandoned by the civilians. The casualties of fighting in Mobye include 11 Tatmadaw and 9 insurgent soldiers killed.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-resistance-scents-breakthrough-as-bodies-pile-up-in-moebye.html|title= Myanmar Resistance Scents Breakthrough as Bodies Pile Up in Moebye|date= 15 December 2023}}

On 7 January, the Karenni rebel forces launched an offensive against Pekon. By the following day, they had captured the police station, as well as state and government offices, bringing most of the city under their control. More than two-thirds of the town's population fled the fighting. Ko Banyar additionally reported that fighting was continuing in towns throughout the state.{{cite web |url= https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karenni-resistance-says-it-controls-most-of-pekon-in-myanmars-southern-shan.html |title= Karenni Resistance Says It Controls Most of Pekon in Myanmar's Southern Shan|first=Brian|last=Wei|date=12 January 2024|work=The Irrawaddy|access-date=20 January 2024}}

Mawchi has fallen to Karenni forces as of 29 January. Mawchi was taken by Karenni Nationalities Defense Force, which is an effort towards Taungoo where Karen National Union is already fighting. Thus the efforts in Kayah and Bago are linked. Fighting was reported in Mobye, Demoso and Loikaw. With 2/3 of Loikaw controlled by the Karenni forces.[https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-troops-relinquish-another-town-to-advancing-karenni-forces.html Myanmar Junta Troops Relinquish Another Town to Advancing Karenni Forces]

On 29 January, KNLA and PDF forces shot down a Tatmadaw Eurocopter AS365 with machine guns, sniper rifles, and RPGs as it was landing. Brigadier General Aye Min Naung of the 44th Light Infantry Division and the pilot were among the five recorded casualties.[https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/in-karen-state-another-myanmar-junta-chopper-shot-down.html In Karen State, Another Myanmar Junta Chopper Shot Down]

In February 2024, reports emerged that the Karenni resistance fight for Loikaw city was stalling. Life was continuing in the outskirts of Loikaw while the downtown area was depopulated. Markets, farming, and small businesses were opening in area's on the outskirts. During this time the KNDF was consolidating control over much of Kayah since the Tatmadaw were sending reinforcements to Loikaw from elsewhere in Kayah.{{cite web|url=https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/well-never-give-up-the-fight-for-loikaw/|title=We'll never give up': The fight for Loikaw|date=3 February 2024 }} At this time, the Karenni resistance were still urging civilians not to return to Loikaw during the fighting.{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/karenni-resistance-urges-civilians-not-to-return-to-loikaw-during-operation-1111/|title=Karenni Resistance Urges Civilians Not to Return to Loikaw During Operation 1111|date=23 January 2024 }}

The Irrawaddy reported in July 2024, that the offensive to take Loikaw had seen little progress since the Karenni took the Loikaw University.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/fighting-resumes-in-myanmars-loikaw-as-karenni-resistance-forces-return.html|title=Fighting Resumes in Myanmar's Loikaw as Karenni Resistance Forces Return|date=8 July 2024 }}

In March 2024, Al Jazeera reported a counter estimate on how much of Loikaw the Karenni forces actually control, stating "About half the city, controlled by the military since the coup, is now in the hands of the Karenni resistance". They further stated that the fighting in Kayah was escalating, with Demoso, Mese, Shadaw and Ywar Thit fully in Karenni control. Khu Reedu was the commander who took Shadaw for the Karennis. Shadaw also saw harsh fighting. Khu Reedu claimed Tatmadaw took 180 casualties dead, while the Karenni only 9 in the fight for Shadaw with 6 civilians dead.

There were also reports of fighting in Pasaung. Al Jazeera also reported that Tatmadaw are increasingly using military planes to bombard Karenni positions. In June Channel 4 reported the Karenni were using customized drones to fight the military.{{cite web|url=https://www.channel4.com/news/myanmars-regime-retreats-as-gen-z-rebels-advance|title= Myanmar's regime retreats as Gen Z rebels advance|date= 14 June 2024}}

Karenni forces captured Hpasawng and most of Hpasawng Township on 14 March.{{cite news |title=Karenni resistance fighters occupy Thailand-Myanmar border town of Hpasawng |url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/karenni-resistance-fighters-occupy-thailand-myanmar-border-town-of-hpasawng/ |work=Myanmar Now |language=en |date=14 March 2024}} On 4 May, Karenni forces launched an offensive on the last remaining junta forces in Hpasawng Township, killing 20 junta soldiers.{{cite news |title=Intense Clashes Erupt in Hpasawng, Report of 20 Junta Soldiers Killed Karenni State |url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/intense-clashes-erupt-hpasawng-report-20-junta-soldiers-killed-karenni-state |date=7 May 2024 |work=Kantarawaddy Times}}

On 29 May it was reported the Karenni were putting up intense resistance at several points of the route to Loikaw the Military is taking. Tatmadaw named this counter-offensive Operation Yan Naing Min.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/myanmar-junta-counteroffensives-failing-across-country-analysts.html|title=Myanmar Junta Counteroffensives Failing Across Country: Analysts|work=The Irrawaddy |date=20 September 2024 |last1=Zan |first1=Hein Htoo }}

On 30 May 2024 the Irrawaddy reported the Tatmadaw had mounted an advance towards Loikaw. They also stated that the Karenni control 80% of Loikaw, meaning the control had increased from 2/3 to 4/5 of Loikaw since January (see above). With the Tatmadaw force being at Kayan Tha Yar with the direction towards at the capital, while stating fighting in Loikaw itself was continuing daily.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-regime-advances-on-karenni-state-capital.html |title=Myanmar Regime Advances on Karenni State Capital|date=30 May 2024 }} By 3 June, the 500 soldier column had reached the Loikaw-Mobye-Hsi Hseng intersection, known as the Kayantharyar intersection.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-column-advances-hsihseng-mongpai-loikaw-intersection-southern-shan-state |title=Junta Column Advances to Hsihseng-Mongpai-Loikaw Intersection in Southern Shan State}}

During 22 June, it was reported that Tatmadaw had lost military bases in Mobye, Demoso, Shadaw, Ywar Thit, Nammekon, Mawchi and Mese since the start of the operation.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/counting-the-myanmar-junta-battalion-hqs-lost-to-resistance-attacks.html|title= Counting the Myanmar Junta Battalion HQs Lost to Resistance Attacks|date= 22 June 2024}}

On 1 July, junta forces began attacking KNDF positions south of Pinlaung, attempting to relieve the Karenni siege on Pekon.{{cite news |title=Clashes break out between Myanmar junta and Karenni fighters in southern Shan State |url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/clashes-break-out-between-myanmar-junta-and-karenni-fighters-in-southern-shan-state/ |work=Myanmar Now |date=2 July 2024}}

The Irrawaddy reported on 8 July that fighting was intensifying after reinforcements of 500 troops had arrived to help the already stationed 1,500 Tatmadaw troops.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/fighting-resumes-in-myanmars-loikaw-as-karenni-resistance-forces-return.html|title=Fighting Resumes in Myanmar's Loikaw as Karenni Resistance Forces Return|date=8 July 2024 }}

The Atlas News reported that the reinforcing column had managed to take some initial territory around Loikaw after arriving. Methods included using infiltration tactics, by sending in soldiers into the rebel held area dressed as civilians to do reconnaissance for the Tatmadaw while the reinforced Tatmadaw advanced towards Loikaw University. The Karenni were reported to lack ammunition, making defending the area harder. The military regime claimed to have opened schools in previously contested areas of Loikaw. In light of this Karenni forces regrouped and announced a counterattack amidst this fighting on 4 July.

By mid July in Hpasawng Township there had been reports of fresh intense fighting, including Karenni claims of poisoned gas use by Tatmadaw against the resistance fighters.{{cite web| url= https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-allegedly-uses-poison-gases-hpasawng-clashes|title=Junta Allegedly Uses Poison Gases in Hpasawng Clashes}}

Meanwhile, in Loikaw, pro-Tatmadaw sources confirmed there to be continued fighting in Loikaw, Pekhon and Mobye. These sources also claimed that there had been Tatmadaw progress in the direction of Loikaw University. Chinaview reported the junta had intercepted a weapons shipment into Kayah State.{{cite web| url= http://www.chinaview.cn/20240713/ebad4a7aea7847c7b4302289dca81343/c.html |title= 5 arrested for smuggling firearms in eastern Myanmar}} In Loikaw itself, Karenni State Interim Executive Council where moving museum artefacts into safety from the fighting. The Irrawaddy stated the Tatmadaw has forced the Karenni on the retreat in parts of Loikaw.{{cite web | url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/as-myanmars-military-bombed-loikaw-museums-antiquities-were-moved-to-safety.html | title=As Myanmar's Military Bombed Loikaw, Museum's Antiquities 'Were Moved to Safety'| date=19 July 2024}}

By end of July, there emerged reports that soldiers had started intentionally setting civilian houses alight. Hmainglone, Ywardanshae, Htudungantha, Loikaw Technological University and Myakalat Mountain areas of Loikaw city were seeing fighting.

The military is recommending that civilians return to Loikaw, while KNDF recommends they do not due to the fighting.{{cite web | url=

https://mmpeacemonitor.org/329433/over-60-civilian-houses-burned-down-by-junta-in-over-one-month-in-loikaw/

|title=Over 60 civilian houses burned down by junta in over one month in Loikaw|date=29 July 2024 }}

In early August it was reported that Tatmadaw had secured Loikaw, including much of its rural township, according to Tatmadaw claims and civilian reports.{{cite web | url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-fortifies-recaptured-loikaw.html|title=Myanmar Junta Fortifies Recaptured Loikaw|date=7 August 2024 }} KNDF states there are daily clashes around Loikaw including for the control of Loikaw-Demoso Union Highway.{{cite web | url=https://newdaymyanmar.com/kndf-restricts-usage-of-loikaw-demoso-highway-and-adjacent-routes-due-to-ongoing-clashes/|title=KNDF Restricts Usage of Loikaw-Demoso Highway and Adjacent Routes Due to Ongoing Clashes|date=8 August 2024 }} There are reports of Karenni advances as well, with two key military bases (Yaykyaw & Mae Salong) near Bawlakhe falling to the resistance fighters.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/karenni-resistance-forces-seize-juntas-yaykyaw-military-base-bawlakhe-district|title=Karenni resistance forces seize junta's Yaykyaw military base in Bawlakhe District}} While Myanmar Peace Monitor reported 608 Karenni fighters, 514 civilians had been killed since the 2021 coup.{{cite web | url=https://mmpeacemonitor.org/329589/57-civilians-killed-in-seven-months-of-armed-conflict-in-karenni-state/|title=57 civilians killed in seven months of armed conflict in Karenni State|date=5 August 2024 }}

Fighting around Mobye has also intensified, including damaging a nearby dam that has led to flooding in parts of Demoso, Mobye and Loikaw.[https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-intensifies-airlifts-weapons-and-ammunition-422nd-light-infantry-battalion-near-karenni Junta intensifies airlifts of weapons and ammunition to 422nd Light Infantry Battalion near Karenni-Shan border] Kantarawaddy Times 13 August 2024

In early September KNDF shelled Loikaw in an attempt to kill Min Aung Hlaing. With the Irrawaddy reiterating that Loikaw has been lost to Tatmadaw, as mentioned above.[https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-boss-targeted-in-artillery-attack-while-visiting-karenni-capital.html Myanmar Junta Boss Targeted in Artillery Attack While Visiting Karenni Capital]{{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240909102407/https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-boss-targeted-in-artillery-attack-while-visiting-karenni-capital.html|date=9 September 2024}} While RFA reported the Karenni are taking bases and settlements around Loikaw.[https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/kayah-state-loikaw-attack-09052024074403.html Myanmar rebels say they launched mortar attack on coup leader] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240907042942/https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/kayah-state-loikaw-attack-09052024074403.html|date=7 September 2024}} In retaliation for attempted killing of Min Aung Hlaing, the Junta conducted airstrikes of civilian targets.[https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-juntas-counterattack-targets-civilians-killing-40-including-children.html Myanmar Junta's ‘Counterattack’ Targets Civilians, Killing 40, Including Children][https://monnews.org/2024/09/12/airstrike-on-pekon-refugee-camp-kills-10-including-6-children/ Airstrike on Pekon Refugee Camp Kills 10, Including 6 Children] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913015418/https://monnews.org/2024/09/12/airstrike-on-pekon-refugee-camp-kills-10-including-6-children/|date=13 September 2024}} With information emerging that Min Aung Hlaing may have exposed himself, by taking a tour of conflict zones, due to internal criticism over recent military setbacks.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/the-reasons-myanmars-junta-boss-ventured-out-of-his-naypyitaw-refuge.html|title=The Reasons Myanmar's Junta Boss Ventured out of His Naypyitaw Refuge|date=13 September 2024 }}

During the second half of September fighting was reported along the Karenni-Shan border killing dozens.{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/battle-at-shan-karenni-border-30-junta-soldiers-killed-3-captured-weapons-and-ammunition-seized/|title= Battle at Shan-Karenni Border: 30 Junta Soldiers Killed, 3 Captured, Weapons and Ammunition Seized. |date= 14 September 2024 }} With large parts of Kayah State at this time seeing flooding, affecting civilian life.{{cite web|url= https://ktnews.org/flooding-submerges-most-homes-in-karenni-states-somo-phay-soe-lay-township/ | title=flooding submerges most homes in karenni states somo phay soe lay township| date=12 September 2024}} This natural disaster was caused by Typhoon Yagi.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-rescuers-uncover-horrors-at-ground-zero-of-yagi-disaster.html|title=Myanmar Rescuers Uncover Horrors at Ground Zero of Yagi Disaster|date=16 September 2024 }}

As of 20 September 2024, the Myanmar junta only has control of Loikaw and Bawlakhe Townships.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/myanmar-junta-counteroffensives-failing-across-country-analysts.html|title=Myanmar Junta Counteroffensives Failing Across Country: Analysts|work=The Irrawaddy |date=20 September 2024 |last1=Zan |first1=Hein Htoo }}

In December reports emerged that as mentioned above in July already, the Karenni suffered ammunition shortages. But that now this was due to the Pa-O National Army cutting Karenni supply lines and thus causing the supply problems. Contributing to the Tatmadaw retaking Loikaw.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/courage-and-complicity-those-who-defined-2024.html|title=Courage and Complicity: Those Who Defined 2024|date=27 December 2024 }}

The Karenni State Interim Executive Council said 40,000 people have been displaced by Yagi and the Mobye Dam flooding. With other estimates that Kayahs agricultural production could fall by as much as 30% as a result. With many civilians in conflict areas risking food insecurity because of it.{{cite web|url=https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/floods-deal-devastating-blow-to-farming-in-karenni-shan-states/|title=Floods deal devastating blow to farming in Karenni, Shan states |date=October 2024 }}

As of 2 October, Junta census push is ongoing until 15 October. Stating that clashes were continuing and that there were risk of further attacks due to the census drive.{{cite web|url=https://crisis24.garda.com/alerts/2024/10/myanmar-attacks-in-major-cities-likely-during-national-census-through-oct-15-amid-ongoing-clashes-in-several-states-nationwide-update-15|title=Myanmar: Attacks in major cities likely during national census through Oct. 15 amid ongoing clashes in several states nationwide /update 15}}

Karenni resistance groups rejected Junta offer to negotiate a peace agreement.{{cite web|url=https://www.asianews.it/news-en/Myanmar%E2%80%99s-armed-resistance-rejects-junta%E2%80%99s-offer-of-negotiations-61608.html|title= Myanmar's armed resistance rejects junta's offer of negotiations}}

The Junta is reported to have prevented aid from reaching some areas by putting in place road blocks, thus worsening the effects of Yagi. With some 200,000 people being displaced by Yagi.{{cite web|url=https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/double-disaster-flooding-batters-war-torn-kayah-state/|title= Double disaster: Flooding batters war-torn Kayah State|date= 28 October 2024}}

During October fighting has been reported in North Kayah State. Amid the state still feeling some effects from Yagi. With a 1,000 Tatmadaw troops and additional Pa-O Militia attacking several settlements held by Karenni Resistance. Such as Pinlaung, Mobye and Pekon.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/fighting-flares-as-myanmar-junta-tries-to-retake-karenni-held-villages.html |title= Fighting Flares as Myanmar Junta Tries to Retake Karenni-Held Villages |date= 24 October 2024 }} While Frontline states Pekon had been taken in a military counter-offensive taking advantage of the flooding caused by Yagi. Karenni Army Adjutant-General Colonel Phone Naing however thinks Tatmadaw won't aim to hold the territory, but is seeking to shore up its supply lines. With fighting reported in Bawlake and Hparsaung as well. With as of October only Loikaw and Bawlake townships being controlled by Tatmadaw. Causing Tatmadaw to have supply some of its troop with helicopters.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/after-the-fall-of-htu-chaung-camp-the-military-junta-reinforces-with-helicopters/|title= After the Fall of Htu Chaung Camp, the Military Junta Reinforces with Helicopters|date= 24 October 2024}}

The Kayan National Army was formed on 29 October, unifying many of the Karenni Resistance forces.{{cite web|url=https://moemaka.net/eng/2024/10/formation-of-the-kayan-national-army-kna/|title=Formation of the Kayan National Army (KNA)|date=30 October 2024 }}

On 1 November it was reported that Karenni resistance forces have been pushed back in Southern Shan state. With one reason given being the resistance forces running low on ammunition. Also Chinese drones are playing a part, with former counter-measures less effective in their combat and their able to carry bigger bomb loads. With the article mentioning that the Junta were in control of Loikaw as previously reported, but also its airport.{{cite web|url=https://www.rfa.org/english/myanmar/2024/10/31/myanmar-evacuation/|title=Military advances force evacuation of villages in Myanmar's Shan state |date=31 October 2024 }}

The Irrawaddy reported on 5 November that Tatmadaw was building up forces near Kayah State and in Loikaw for an offensive, possibly for the upcoming anniversary of Operation 1111. The aim might be to take more territory. With residents of Loikaw estimating the Tatmadaw forces there now numbering some 4,000 troops.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-builds-karenni-state-forces-ahead-of-possible-offensive.html

|title=Myanmar Junta Builds Karenni State Forces Ahead of Possible Offensive|date=5 November 2024 }}

While civilian farmers are suffering disruptions due to the ongoing situation in Northern Kayah and South Western Shan.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-troops-detain-over-200-villagers-returning-rice-harvest-puche-village|title=Junta Troops Detain Over 200 Villagers Returning from Rice Harvest in Puche Village}} With some outlets claiming the Junta taking vehicles from villagers, use of 'human shields' and forced conscription in Pekhon.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/villagers-vehicles-stolen-whilst-they-are-forced-be-human-shields

|title=Villagers' Vehicles Stolen Whilst They Are Forced to Be Human Shields}}

Fighting has now come to Dee Maw Hso Township, a township that hasn't seen much fighting since beginning of Operation 1111. While fighting Moebye Town, Pekhon-Pinlaung area and with large scale artillery shelling. While a KNDF spokesperson said the Tatmadaw offensive might head towards Loikaw or to Nam Mae Khon, with the Tatmadaw exact goals unclear to KNDF. The fighting in the Karenni-Shan border area is a continuation of months of fighting there.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/kndf-warns-public-to-remain-alert-amid-military-juntas-artillery-shelling/

|title=KNDF Warns Public to Remain Alert Amid Military Junta's Artillery Shelling

|date=15 November 2024

}}

In late November, a small detachment of 80 Junta troops heading for Loikaw from Mobye were attacked and suffered some 30 dead.

{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karenni-resistance-prevents-myanmar-junta-army-unit-from-reaching-loikaw.html|title=Karenni Resistance Prevents Myanmar Junta Army Unit from Reaching Loikaw|date=28 November 2024 }} At the same time-frame, fighting in Pekhon is causing displacement of Civilians.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/due-continuous-heavy-artillery-shelling-more-displacements-occur-pekon-township

|title=Due to Continuous Heavy Artillery Shelling, More Displacements Occur in Pekon Township}} Including with Junta airstrikes on Pekhon.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/junta-conducts-eight-airstrikes-on-western-pekon-township-resulting-in-civilian-casualties/|title=Junta Conducts Eight Airstrikes on Western Pekon Township, Resulting in Civilian Casualties|date=3 December 2024 }} While the Irrawaddy reports Pekhon has been taken, unlike concurrent reports by Bni Online and KT News, which report fighting in Pekhon.

{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-regime-continues-karenni-offensive-despite-high-casualties.html|title=Myanmar Regime Continues Karenni Offensive Despite High Casualties|date=2 December 2024 }} The Frontier Myanmar also reported Pekhon was taken, but already in October. While the Irrawaddy reports major fighting in Mobye for control of the Pekon-Moebye-Loikaw road. With Mobye sitting in a 'critical junction'. Quoting a Pekhon PDF member saying "The regime has gathered around 500 troops in Pekon. It is trying to break through to the Battalion 422 base, backed by shelling from artillery units in Pekon and Loikaw,". While also stating fighting was occurring on the outskirts of Loikaw itself. With Nan Mae Khon being a goal of the Tatmadaws push.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-regime-continues-karenni-offensive-despite-high-casualties.html|title=Myanmar Regime Continues Karenni Offensive Despite High Casualties|date=2 December 2024 }} With Tatmadaw using drone strikes in Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/junta-launches-drone-attack-on-idp-camp-in-moebye-resulting-in-three-deaths-and-three-injuries/

|title=Junta Launches Drone Attack on IDP Camp in MoeBye, Resulting in Three Deaths and Three Injuries|date=5 December 2024 }} In early December, claims of chemical weapons use surface in fight for Mobye.{{cite web|title=Myanmar Military Uses Chemical Agents in Drone Attacks|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/myanmar-military-uses-chemical-agents-drone-attacks}}

By mid December, arrests and gunfire were reported from Loikaw.{{cite web|title=Locals Report Nighttime Arrests in Loikaw by the Military Junta|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/locals-report-nighttime-arrests-loikaw-military-junta}}

Bombardment in villages east of Pekhon Lake force civilians to flee, despite this area not currently being seeing fighting.{{cite web|title=Myanmar Military Launches Continued Artillery Attacks on Villages East of Pekhon Lake, Forcing Civilians to Flee|date=18 December 2024 |url=https://ktnews.org/myanmar-military-launches-continued-artillery-attacks-on-villages-east-of-pekhon-lake-forcing-civilians-to-flee/}} While the PNO have been fighting in the townships of Pinlaung, Hsihseng, and Pekon.{{cite web|title=Junta-Aligned PNO Demanding More Vehicle Taxes|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-aligned-pno-demanding-more-vehicle-taxes}}

In December, while all this fighting is going on, Pro-Junta sources report fears of a second push to take Loikaw by KNDF since Operation 1111 started. Stating fighting is occurring in 'Bawlakhe, Hpruso, Hpasawng, Demoso, Moebye, and Pekon' and estimating a battle for Loikaw is on the horizon for 2025.{{cite web|title=KNDF recharging to attack Loikaw again; residents' concern over battles soar

|url=

https://npnewsmm.com/news/6760fb311f5b9005d3564127

}} While around the New Year, Khun Be Du, chairperson of the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF) said; “In 2025, we will strive to decisively take over the junta's camps in Kayah [Karenni] State. We call on the people to support and encourage us.”{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-nug-acting-president-vows-reforms-in-new-year-speech.html

|title=Myanmar NUG Acting President Vows Reforms in New Year Speech |date=3 January 2025 }} In November the Irrawaddy reported a military build-up in Loikaw of 4,000 troops.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-builds-karenni-state-forces-ahead-of-possible-offensive.html

|title=Myanmar Junta Builds Karenni State Forces Ahead of Possible Offensive|date=5 November 2024 }}

Since November, according to the Irrawaddy, both the Junta and the Pa-O National Army have been on the offensive to retake territory from the Karenni Resistance.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/courage-and-complicity-those-who-defined-2024.html|title=Courage and Complicity: Those Who Defined 2024|date=27 December 2024 }}

With late December civilians having fled from Mobye, Pekhon and Loikaw.{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/karenni-idps-residing-near-taunggyi-suffering-from-skin-infections-in-need-of-medicine/|title=Karenni IDPs Residing Near Taunggyi Suffering from Skin Infections, in Need of Medicine|date=27 December 2024 }} Tatmadaw is seeing setbacks in their offensive against the Karenni, with the Mellyu base, Shadaw Township falling to the Karenni Army. The base had 80 troops.{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/myanmar-junta-troops-retreat-from-mellyu-base-karenni-army-seizes-large-cache-of-weapons-vehicles-and-motorbikes/|title=Myanmar Junta Troops Retreat from Mellyu Base; Karenni Army Seizes Large Cache of Weapons, Vehicles, and Motorbikes|date=31 December 2024 }}

Kantarawaddy Times reported that from 1 February 2021 to 1 December 2024 there had been 1765 air strikes in Kayah State by the Junta,{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/8-civilians-including-children-killed-in-karenni-shan-border-area-in-december/

|title=

8 Civilians, Including Children, Killed in Karenni-Shan Border Area in December

| date=10 January 2025 }}

while in early January 2025 reports emerged that the Junta is supporting the Pa-O National Army offensive in the northern border area with airstrikes.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/juntas-new-year-airstrikes-kill-at-least-20-throughout-myanmar.html

|title=

Junta's New Year Airstrikes Kill at Least 20 Throughout Myanmar

| date=3 January 2025 }}

El Pais reports that Demoso has become a place for refugees to shelter. Housing some 150,000 people today. While it mentions fighting on the "Loikaw front". With KNDF General Maui stating "Without enough weapons for a frontal assault, tactics and intelligence are everything in the outcome of the conflict. We must make sure that the army comes after us and falls in our trap.”{{cite web|url=

https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-01-11/myanmars-gen-z-combatants-guerrilla-tactics-against-a-military-dictatorship.html

|title=

Myanmar's Gen Z combatants: Guerrilla tactics against a military dictatorship

| date=11 January 2025 }}

While Myanmar Peace Monitor reports Loikaw Prison was excluded from a recent amnesty issued by the Junta.{{cite web|url=

https://mmpeacemonitor.org/en/en-news/kppa-political-prisoners-from-loikaw-prison-excluded-from-amnesty-list/

|title=

KPPA: Political prisoners from Loikaw prison excluded from amnesty list

| date=7 January 2025 }}

By mid January skirmishing was reported within the vicinity of Loikaw, with brunt airstrikes being around Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/myanmar-junta-conducts-airstrikes-in-two-areas-of-karenni-state/

|title=

Myanmar Junta Conducts Airstrikes in Two Areas of Karenni State

| date=15 January 2025 }} One killed and one wounded was reported in this fighting in Mobye by Karenni resistance.{{cite web|url=

https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-junta-offensive-leaves-one-resistance-fighter-dead-near-shan-karenni-border/|title=Myanmar junta offensive leaves one resistance fighter dead near Shan-Karenni border |date=23 January 2025 }}

During this time Min Aung Hlaing stated in his opinion, the destruction now seen in Kayah state is the fault of the Karenni resistance.{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/ethnic-armed-groups-are-destroying-their-own-regions-and-lacking-political-maturity-claims-senior-general-min-aung-hlaing/

|title=Ethnic Armed Groups Are Destroying Their Own Regions and Lacking Political Maturity, Claims Senior General Min Aung Hlaing

|date=15 January 2025

}}

Towards later half of January reports emerged of fighting on Loikaws outskits. This while Tatmadaw wants to reopen the University of Loikaw. Locals interviewed stated this fighting was the reason they didn't yet want to return to Loikaw.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/military-council-says-efforts-underway-to-reopen-loikaw-university-as-soon-as-possible/

|title=Military Council Says Efforts Underway to Reopen Loikaw University as Soon as Possible|date=23 January 2025 }}

Tatmadaw has succeeded in taking Mobye, the town, during its offensive in December. Now as of early February the KNDF launches an advance to retake the town.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/karenni-rebels-advance-on-key-shan-town.html

|title=Karenni Rebels Advance on Key Shan Town|date=7 February 2025 }} Tatmadaw reportedly took Mobye with 700 troops deployed to the task.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/chin-national-council-to-unite-armed-resistance-factions-min-aung-hlaing-signs-nuclear-power-deal-with-russia/

|title=Chin National Council to unite armed resistance factions; Min Aung Hlaing signs nuclear power deal with Russia|date=6 March 2025 }}

By Middle February, 80% of Historical Karenni State is estimated by Democratic Voice of Burma as under resistance control.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-provisional-government-expands-its-administration/

|title=Karenni State provisional government expands administration|date=15 February 2025 }} On February 17 Karenni Army is reported to have taken the last Tatmadaw outpost along the Kayah-Thai border. With said assault starting on 12 February with artillery and drone strikes on the 40 man strong Tatmadaw outpost.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/ka-seizes-last-remaining-junta-military-camp-thai-karenni-border

|title=KA Seizes the Last Remaining Junta Military Camp on the Thai-Karenni Border}} Reports of some Tatmadaw conscripts defecting to KNDF had emerged; "Most defectors are young men who were forcibly conscripted under the junta's military service law and sent to the frontlines."{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/14-conscripts-escape-junta-forces-and-defect-to-kndf-battalion-3-within-18-days/

|title=14 Conscripts Escape Junta Forces and Defect to KNDF Battalion 3 Within 18 Days|date=18 February 2025 }}

By February 22, more defections were reported and 'clashes' in Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/increasing-defections-among-military-conscripts/

|title=Increasing Defections Among Military Conscripts|date=22 February 2025 }}

Reports of Tatmadaw looting of homes reported in Pekhon township, it's town and villages. With intense fighting reported there.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-looting-and-burning-homes-pekon-town-shan-state

|title=Junta Looting and Burning Homes in Pekon Town, Shan State

}}

Early March, reports of air and artillery strikes in Pekhon and Loikaw.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/ethnic-armed-groups-to-resolve-dispute-in-northern-shan-state-over-500-karen-state-residents-flee-into-thailand/

|title=

Ethnic armed groups to resolve dispute in northern Shan State; Over 500 Karen State residents flee into Thailand

| date=3 March 2025 }} "Heavy Clashes" reported in Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/karenni-resistance-reports-heavy-clashes-as-myanmar-junta-pushes-to-reclaim-mobye.html

|title=

Karenni Resistance Reports Heavy Clashes as Myanmar Junta Pushes to Reclaim Mobye |date=

4 March 2025 }}

While KNDF had announced it launched an offensive to retake Mobye from Tatmadaw, who had taken it in December.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/karenni-rebels-advance-on-key-shan-town.html

|title=Karenni Rebels Advance on Key Shan Town|date=7 February 2025 }} Junta is reported to have taken high casualties when taking the town. With KNDF now defending against a Junta bid to "Reclaim" Mobye from KNDF. The Junta is now sending reinforcements from Loikaw to help in this effort. Additional areas are mentioned, with the Irrawaddy citing an KNDF member saying: "Fighting has also broken out in [Karenni's] Loikaw, Hpasaung, and Bawlakhae townships over the past month, but Mobye has seen the heaviest clashes. The junta has suffered significant casualties while we have also lost some comrades". Mobye is strategically located 40 km from Loikaw. In the city of Loikaw itself, the Junta is reported to be deploying the Peoples Militia to guard important sites. Such as Educational and Government buildings. Explaining "The People's Militia in Loikaw was formed after the 1111 Operation, and the majority of its members are local residents and junta supporters."{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/military-junta-deploys-peoples-militia-security-schools-and-government-offices-loikaw

|title=Military Junta Deploys People's Militia for Security at Schools and Government Offices in Loikaw}} Reporting on the recent fighting causes civilian casualties, due to artillery and air strikes.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/five-civilians-including-four-children-under-18-killed-karenni-state-due-military-junta-attacks

|title=Five Civilians, Including Four Children Under 18, Killed in Karenni State Due to Military Junta Attacks Within a Month}} Drone strikes in the fight over Mobye reported, these drone strikes have forced the Karenni to withdraw from some defensive positions with both Tatmadaw and Karenni resistance having suffered "heavy casualties".{{cite web|url=https://english.dvb.no/regime-steps-up-drone-attacks-on-southern-shan-state/|title=Regime steps up drone attacks on southern Shan and Karenni states|date=10 March 2025 }}

Karenni have made inroads into Bawlakhe township recently, prompting the Junta to respond, lanching a battle for Bawlakhe. With also Demoso, Moebye and areas surrounding Loikaw also seeing some fighting.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-state-residents-on-alert-as-regime-steps-up-counteroffensive/

|title=Karenni State residents on alert as regime steps up counteroffensive|date=13 March 2025 }} Claims of the Junta employing prisoners in their fight against the Karenni emerge.{{cite web|url=

https://mpapress.com/politics/60075/

|title=

Junta Forcibly Deploys Prisoners to Fight Against Resistance Forces

| date=15 March 2025 }}

My mid March Irrawaddy says "In Hpruso, Bawlake, Hpasawng, and Demoso, the regime has primarily resorted to defensive positions", leaving it unclear what kind of control this in practice means, is it the towns or just strategic points in the townships. With heavy fighting in Mobye and Pekhon. Irrawaddy also reporting "heavy casualties" in this fighting.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/mapping-the-myanmar-juntas-gains-losses-and-stalemates-since-operation-1027.html

|title=

Mapping the Myanmar Junta's Gains, Losses, and Stalemates Since Operation 1027

| date=19 March 2025 }} While DVB stated in mid-February "The regime in Naypyidaw controls Loikaw, Bawlakhe, and Hpasawng."{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-provisional-government-expands-its-administration/

|title=Karenni State provisional government expands administration|date=15 February 2025 }}

Pa-O National Organization is said to participate in the fighting as fighting is ongoing along the Loikaw-Hsihseng road, incl. in Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/tensions-rise-in-southern-shan-and-karenni-states-as-funeral-held-for-resistance-member-killed-in-moebye/

|title=Tensions rise in southern Shan and Karenni states as funeral held for resistance member killed in Moebye|date=25 March 2025 }}

The 2025 Myanmar earthquake affected residents, limiting their water access. However, combat also continued in the Kayah theatre with Junta airstrikes in Hrupso and Loikaw townships. While reportedly, some Karenni civilians initially confused the quake with airstrikes.{{cite web|url=

https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/after-quake-karenni-state-residents-still-endangered-by-ongoing-airstrikes/

|title=After quake, Karenni State residents still endangered by ongoing airstrikese|date=April 2025 }}{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/an-earthquake-and-airstrikes-devastate-the-people-of-myanmar.html

|title=An Earthquake and Airstrikes Devastate the People of Myanmar|date=31 March 2025 }}

This water crisis affecting some 100,000 people in Karenni held areas.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/water-vital-karenni-stream-unusable-thousands-affected

|title=Water in Vital Karenni Stream Unusable, Thousands Affected}}

In early April it was reported that civilian recovery from the Earthquake had begun. However, this largely with private efforts and donations. The KSIEC has promised it will provide support to civilians.{{cite web|url=

https://ktnews.org/locals-struggle-to-recover-from-earthquake-damage-in-karenni-state/

|title=Recover from Earthquake Damage in Karenni State}}

In some parts of Karenni lands food production is affected. This is still from the 2024 flooding, meaning there are multiply natural disasters affecting life in Karenni state.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/flood-affected-residents-shardaw-township-need-assistance-buy-corn-seeds|title=Flood-Affected Residents in Shardaw Township Need Assistance to Buy Corn Seeds}}

====Battles along roads north continues====

Several villages are seeing combat along the Loikaw-Hsihseng road. Reporting Tatmadaw "has control of Loikaw, Bawlakhe and Hpasawng in Karenni, as well as the MOC 7 in Pekon town, southern Shan." This as of early April.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/regime-air-and-artillery-attacks-kill-five-in-karenni-state/

|title=Regime attacks kill five in Karenni State since ceasefire}}

BBC undercover journalist team report daily fighting in Mobye. With frontlines running some 100 meters from a military base in Mobye.{{cite web|url=

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tD4Fg08c_R0

|title=Myanmar frontline: BBC witnesses army breaking ceasefire following devastating earthquake BBC News|website=YouTube }} 29 April the Irrawaddy reported that during the during 27th an Tatmadaw unit of 100 troops advancing on Mobye from the north was attacked by KNDF. On 28th the Tatmadaw attempted to assault Mobye with 300 troops. With casualties amongst the Karenni resistance. The Irrawaddy stating the control of Mobye being held by the Karenni resistance since 'early' 2025, but that the Tatmadaw is trying to retake it.

{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-attacks-resistance-shan-stronghold.html

|title=Myanmar Junta Attacks Resistance Shan Stronghold

}}

While for context, the status of Mobye til February 2025 from start of Operation 1111;

• At the outset of Operation 1111 the Junta controlled Mobye.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-resistance-scents-breakthrough-as-bodies-pile-up-in-moebye.html|title= Myanmar Resistance Scents Breakthrough as Bodies Pile Up in Moebye|date= 15 December 2023}}
• Tatmadaw had lost Mobye by November 2024.{{cite web|url=https://english.dvb.no/regime-steps-up-drone-attacks-on-southern-shan-state/

|title= Regime steps up drone attacks on southern Shan and Karenni states}}

• Tatmadaw had retaken the Mobye town for a moment by late December 2024 which they then lost.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/karenni-rebels-advance-on-key-shan-town.html

|title=Karenni Rebels Advance on Key Shan Town|date=7 February 2025 }}

• Then by February it was back in Karenni hands.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-provisional-government-expands-its-administration/

|title= Karenni State provisional government expands administration

}}

Meanwhile Khun Bedu of KNDF has made a statement that the different resistance groups of Myanmar should cooperate to retake Lashio.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/kndf-vows-lashio-city-will-be-retaken-junta |title=KNDF Vows That Lashio City Will Be Retaken from the Junta}} Kantarawaddy Times reported on 6 May that 13 civilians have been killed and 20 wounded since the earthquake ceasefire was announced. Stating: "attacks took place in areas such as Bawlakhe and Mawchi in Karenni State, as well as in Pekon and Mobye along the Shan-Karenni border."{{cite web|url=https://ktnews.org/13-civilians-killed-and-over-20-injured-in-karenni-state-during-military-declared-ceasefire-reports-say/ |title=13 Civilians Killed and Over 20 Injured in Karenni State During Military-Declared Ceasefire, Reports Say}} KNU conducts attacks and takes military bases along the Thai Border, including in the Karenni border areas.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/karen-offensive-seizes-a-dozen-junta-bases-along-myanmar-thai-border.html|title=Karen Offensive Seizes a Dozen Junta Bases Along Myanmar-Thai Border}} Killed and wounded, incl. an PDF deputy battalion commander reported in Southern Shan. With fighting in several places, incl. Bawlakhe and Mobye. With PNO accused of extra-judicial killings of four PNLA members.{{cite web|url=https://english.dvb.no/over-500-residents-of-kachin-state-displaced-by-flooding-eight-killed-in-shan-state-fighting-between-ethnic-armies/|title=Over 500 residents of Kachin State displaced by flooding; Eight ‘killed’ in Shan State fighting between ethnic armies}} 1,000 Junta and PNO troops were attacked by PDF troops in Nyaung Shwe Township, causing an unknown number of causulties.{{cite web|url=https://yktnews.com/2025/06/216576/|title=ညောင်ရွှေတွင် အင်အား ၁၀၀၀ ခန့် ဖြင့် စစ်တပ်က စစ်ကြောင်းထိုးနေပြီး ပြည်သူလူထု၏နေအိမ်များကို စစ်ကောင်စီက မီးရှို့ဖျက်ဆီး}} Bawlakhe town is seeing heavy fighting, with Karenni Army saying their goal is to take the town. 5 resistance fighters have died, incl. an deputy battalion commander. It was an ambush of Junta troops on the Loikaw to Loilemlay road. The Irrawaddy is also stating the Karenni have established a joint command to defend Mobye from Junta offensive and to conduct it's offensive on Bawlakhe.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-suffers-heavy-casualties-in-battle-for-karenni-town.html |title=Myanmar Junta Suffers ‘Heavy Casualties’ in Battle for Karenni Town}} Reports emerged 10 june that PNO has begun evicting people from villages in and around Hsihseng Township. Stating that The PNO also warned that it could not guarantee the safety of any villagers who do not leave their homes by 15 June.{{cite web|url=https://english.shannews.org/archives/28152 |title=PNO Forces Mass Relocation of Over 6,000 Residents in Southern Shan State}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-aligned-pno-evicting-population-12-villages |title=Junta-Aligned PNO Evicting Population of 12 Villages}} 8,000 civilians have to flee due to fighting in mid june in Pekon Township. The Junta and PNO offensive being cited as the cause. With heavy fighting over Mobye continuing, but also in the rest of the Township. The Shan Herald Agency for News stating KNDF controls Mobye, but junta is trying to retake it. With civilian life difficult in Southern Shan. Reporting "The 13 villages in eastern Pekon Township that villagers had to flee from are: Taungpoetkwe, Taungpoetgyi, Yaepu, Hpayartaung, Hsantswea, Hsantlate, Loipaw, Saungnankhe, Nangpawlong, Mahkayhkam, Lahei, Nyaungmun, and Konepaw." due to the mid-June fighting.{{cite web|url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/fighting-forces-8000-flee-pekon-township|title=Fighting Forces 8,000 to Flee in Pekon Township}}

13 June the Irrawaddy reported Junta troops entered Mobye, with heavy fighting there. While the Karenni have attacked the Battalion 1006. Quoting an resistance fighter, that Mobye is strategic, from there the Karenni can threaten Loikaw itself. With the battle also being about Junta's upcomming elections. Controlling the Mobye-Loikaw road would make it easier to arrange by the Junta. PNO has been advancing into Yawnghwe and Pinlaung townships, plus Eastern Pekon. Helped by Russian military trained PNO units. With ammunition shortages being a cause for gradual withdrawal by the Karenni.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-advances-into-karenni-state.html

|title=Myanmar Junta Advances into Karenni State}}

Latest estimate is that 70% of Karenni state is now in Resistance control.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/business/karenni-resistance-leaders-vow-to-crack-down-on-price-gouging-as-fuel-crisis-deepens.html |title=Karenni Resistance Leaders Vow to Crack Down on Price Gouging as Fuel Crisis Deepens}} Causalities reported amongst fighting in Pekhon township.{{cite web|url=https://english.dvb.no/two-peoples-defence-force-members-killed-in-shan-state-malaysia-urged-to-stop-arrests-of-myanmar-refugees/|title=Two People’s Defence Force members killed in Shan State; Malaysia urged to stop arrests of Myanmar refugees }}

On 25th of June the Karenni launched an offensive near Mawchi town in Hpasawng township. With two resistance fighters reported dead during 23-25 June in the battle for Moebye. 40 civilian homes reportedly were set aflame during the same period in Pekhon township. Stating that Loikaw, Bawlakhe and Hpasawng remain under tatmadaw control.{{cite web|url=

https://english.dvb.no/airstrike-kills-7-civilians-as-fighting-continues-in-karenni-state/

|title=Airstrike kills 7 civilians as fighting continues in Karenni State }} Said burning of homes reported to have happened in Saung Nan Khae and it being 50-60 houses burned.{{cite web|url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/military-council-and-pno-torched-homes-saung-nan-khae-village-over-half-reportedly-destroyed|title=Military Council and PNO Torched Homes in Saung Nan Khae Village, Over Half Reportedly Destroyed by Fire}}

In early March it was reported that most homes of those who fled the fighting had been looted in Loikaw.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/residents-expressed-organized-gangs-rampantly-loot-vacant-homes-in-loikaw-city-with-no-reporting-outlets-available/ | title=Residents Expressed Organized Gangs Rampantly Loot Vacant Homes in Loikaw City with No Reporting Outlets Available - | date=8 March 2024 }} There were also reports of trials of Loikaw University personnel for having colluded with the regime, including Loikaw University Rector U Aung Khin Myint.{{cite web | url=https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/karenni-interim-executive-council-sentences-five-lecturers-including-loikaw-university-rector | title=Karenni Interim Executive Council sentences five lecturers, including Loikaw University rector, to two-year prison terms }}

Karenni State Interim Executive Council has begun to consolidate control over parts of Kayah State. In January 2025 it was reported that the new interim government has begun collecting taxes on township level.{{cite web | url=

https://ktnews.org/residents-demand-a-transparent-and-fair-taxation-policy/

| title=

Residents Demand a Transparent and Fair Taxation Policy| date=

27 January 2025}}

By July 2024, it was reported that an anti-junta law enforcement agency, the Karenni State Police, were attempting to deal with sex crimes.[https://mmpeacemonitor.org/329442/sex-offenders-in-karenni-face-punitive-actions/ Sex offenders in Karenni face punitive actions] 26 July 2024. Myanmar Peace Monitor

365 cases of war related sexual violence has been documented by Women’s League of Burma in Karenni State, by mid 2025 since the start coup.[https://ktnews.org/over-300-cases-of-conflict-related-sexual-violence-reported-in-karenni-state-during-five-years-of-military-rule/ Over 300 Cases of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Reported in Karenni State During Five Years of Military Rule

In now Junta held Loikaw, as of January 2025, the local Military council have started issuing confiscation threats for vacant homes.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/military-council-threatens-to-seize-vacant-homes-in-loikaw/ | title=Military Council Threatens to Seize Vacant Homes in Loikaw - | date=21 January 2025 }} While gender based violence has been brought to the attention of Karenni State Interim Executive Council.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/over-40-cases-reported-to-the-iec-women-and-child-affairs-department-within-a-year-majority-involving-violence-against-women/ | title=Over 40 Cases Reported to the IEC Women and Child Affairs Department within a Year, Majority Involving Violence Against Women - | date=22 January 2025 }}

The KSIEC has begun to issue residency cards to its citizens.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/iec-plans-to-issue-temporary-residency-cards-in-karenni-state/ | title=IEC Plans to Issue Temporary Residency Cards in Karenni State - | date=12 February 2025 }}

Due to gambling crackdowns elsewhere in Myanmar, part of the gambling business is shifting to the southern Shan.{{cite web | url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/gambling-dens-opening-hsihseng-town-southern-shan-state | title=Gambling Dens Opening in Hsihseng Town, Southern Shan State }}

DVB, in an interview with Khun Bedu, said the KSIEC has built up a civilian administration, with departments for "youth, education, health, economy, and more." Stating also that they are aiming to hold elections in 2026 and have conducted a population census, with taking Loikaw not being a prerequisite for elections.{{cite web | url=

https://english.dvb.no/karenni-state-a-model-for-bottom-up-federal-democracy-in-myanmar/

| title=Karenni statecraft: federal democracy from the 'bottom up' in Myanmar}}

In May 2025, counterfit cash is reportedly on the rise in Karenni State.{{cite web | url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/public-urged-be-cautious-counterfeit-banknotes-circulate-widely-karenni

| title=Public Urged to Be Cautious as Counterfeit Banknotes Circulate Widely in Karenni}}

The Junta and the people's militia is cracking down on unlicenced vehicle owners in Tatmadaw-held Loikaw as of June 2025.{{cite web | url=

https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/junta-backed-militia-and-traffic-police-crack-down-unlicensed-vehicles-loikaw

| title=Junta-backed Militia and Traffic Police Crack Down on Unlicensed Vehicles in Loikaw}}

Resistance held Karenni areas are suffering severe fuel shortages and the KSIEC is promising a crackdown on price gouging.{{cite web|url=

https://www.irrawaddy.com/business/karenni-resistance-leaders-vow-to-crack-down-on-price-gouging-as-fuel-crisis-deepens.html |title=Karenni Resistance Leaders Vow to Crack Down on Price Gouging as Fuel Crisis Deepens}}

Since the start of the operation, more than 80% of the state's population has been internally displaced. The group Progressive Karenni People reported that the junta had destroyed "46 religious buildings, 22 schools, 14 hospitals and 2,281 homes" in the state since 1 January 2024. Ko Banyar reported that more than 500 people have been killed in the shelling.{{cite web|url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/more-than-80-of-the-population-of-myanmars-karenni-state-has-been-displaced-by-war.html|title=More Than 80% of The Population of Myanmar's Karenni State Has Been Displaced by War|first=Brian|last=Wei|date=17 January 2024|work=The Irrawaddy|access-date=20 January 2024}}

In a UN statement released in August 2024, it stated that the level of brutality had increased, including an increase of aerial bombardment, including on children by the Tatmadaw and beheadings of surrendered soldiers in Loikaw by resistance fighters. With the UN saying the increase in bombardment of civilian targets by the Tatmadaw is a sign of increased desperation amongst the Junta.[https://www.unognewsroom.org/teleprompter/en/2290/myanmar-conflict-rights-probe-update-13-august-2024 Myanmar conflict – rights probe update 13 August 2024] Demoso has become a refugee hub. Refugees in Demoso are suffering water shortages and dependent on charity for their water needs. With IDPs demaning that the Interim Executive Council do more to help.{{cite web | url=https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/water-shortages-karenni-idp-camps-lead-conservation-efforts | title=Water Shortages in Karenni IDP Camps Lead to Conservation Efforts }}

In April 2025, it was reported the food situation had begun to get worse in Kayah.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/the-food-crisis-facing-karenni-idps-that-needs-to-be-addressed/| title=The Food Crisis Facing Karenni IDPs That Needs to Be Addressed| date=22 April 2025}}

KSIEC is calling for humanitarian assistence for 40,000 of its citizens as of June 2025.{{cite web | url=https://ktnews.org/iec-calls-for-humanitarian-assistance-for-around-40000-conflict-affected-civilians/|title=IEC Calls for Humanitarian Assistance for Around 40,000 Conflict-Affected Civilians}}

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