Myanmar's Gen Z Fighters Tackle Military Junta with Guerrilla Tactics

MMMyanmar|

In the conflict-ridden region of Myanmar, young resistance fighters are employing guerrilla warfare against the military junta, which has held power since a coup in February 2021. Soldiers from the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), the armed wing of the exiled National Unity Government, are currently mobilizing at the Loikaw front, near the Thailand border, to reclaim territory and protect civilians.

The ongoing civil conflict, which has resulted in over 5,000 deaths and millions displaced, has drawn many young individuals, including professors, farmers, and students, into armed resistance. Abel, a 26-year-old guerrilla fighter known as "Bye Bye," spoke about the dire circumstances motivating their actions, highlighting the junta's aerial assaults and the ongoing threat faced by nearby villages.

Generational aspirations were shattered when the military’s return to power interrupted what many hoped would be a lasting democracy. Young fighters, like 21-year-old Thu Ra Aung, reflect on their lost dreams for education and a peaceful future. He notes, “Since the coup, everything has changed,” revealing the personal sacrifices young revolutionaries make as they fight against a regime accused of numerous brutalities, including bombing schools and hospitals.

Guerrilla general Maui, a 31-year-old combat leader, emphasizes the importance of tactical intelligence over brute force in their operations. "Without enough weapons for a frontal assault, tactics and intelligence are everything in the outcome of the conflict,” he stated.

As resistance forces gain control of significant areas, including Demoso, a refuge for displaced individuals, the humanitarian crisis deepens. Reports indicate that approximately 18 million people require urgent assistance. Local health facilities, like the hidden hospital run by doctor Soe Ka Naing, struggle with scarce resources to treat an influx of war casualties.

Despite the grim circumstances, the young fighters remain determined. Many express hope for a democratic future that respects the rights of Indigenous communities and promotes peace. As General Maui poignantly noted, “In the end, we will win. We have no alternative; if we lose, I wouldn’t wish the hell we’d find ourselves in on my worst enemy.”

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Myanmar

India Launches 'Operation Brahma' to Aid Myanmar Earthquake Victims

Following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, more than 3,400 individuals have lost their lives, prompting India to initiate 'Operation Brahma' to aid in recovery efforts. As of April 6, 2025, the Indian Army's field hospital in Myanmar has treated approximately 800 patients, according to a post by the Indian embassy in Myanmar on X. On Sunday, the Indian Air Force delivered 31 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including food supplies, to those affected by the disaster. This follows the delivery of 442 tonnes of food, including rice and cooking oil, transported by the Indian Navy's INS Gharial and handed over at Thilawa Port, stated Ambassador Abhay Thakur. The earthquake has also resulted in significant casualties and damage in neighboring regions, with reports of tremors felt in Thailand, China, and Vietnam. In a display of international solidarity, the Quad nations, including India and the United States, expressed their condolences and support for the victims.
MMMyanmar

India Launches Humanitarian Mission 'Operation Brahma' in Earthquake-Hit Myanmar

In response to a catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, India has initiated 'Operation Brahma' to provide crucial humanitarian aid. As of April 6, the death toll has reached over 3,400 people, with thousands more injured and still missing, according to Xinhua News Agency. The Indian Army has established a field hospital in Myanmar, which has treated 800 patients thus far. The Indian embassy in Myanmar reported that the hospital has received high acclaim from local authorities, including a visit from Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. As part of this operation, the Indian Air Force has delivered significant supplies, including 31 tonnes of food and medical aid via a C-17 Globemaster aircraft. Furthermore, on April 5, 442 tonnes of food aid were transported to the disaster zone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences and reiterated India's commitment to supporting Myanmar during this crisis, emphasizing collaborative rescue efforts among international partners, including Australia, Japan, and the United States.
MMMyanmar

Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Exceeds 1,700 Amidst Civil War Challenges

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, resulting in over 1,700 confirmed deaths and more than 3,400 injuries, according to the country’s ruling junta (AFP). The earthquake's epicenter was near Mandalay, causing widespread destruction including the collapse of buildings and infrastructure, notably the control tower at Naypyidaw airport, which has entirely cut off access for many regions. Rescue efforts have been severely hampered by damaged roads, destroyed bridges, and the ongoing civil war, complicating logistics for foreign aid. Early assistance has come in from countries like India and China; India deployed military aircraft with a field hospital while China sent 135 rescuers and millions in emergency relief. However, many local residents are conducting search efforts with minimal equipment, facing extreme heat of up to 41 degrees Celsius (approximately 106 degrees Fahrenheit) while recovering bodies from the wreckage (AP). The United Nations has issued appeals for over $100 million in aid, underscoring that the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the civil conflict has left the country ill-prepared for such disasters (AFP).
MMMyanmar
All Myanmar News ->