According to sources within the Mon resistance, all Mon resistance forces fighting against the military junta plan to join forces and escalate their offensive actions during the open season,
Since the military coup, about six Mon resistance groups have emerged, including the Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF), the Mon State Defense Force (MSDF), the Mon Liberation Army (MLA), and the New Mon State Party (Anti-Dictatorship) (NMSP-AD), which split from the New Mon State Party.
The major Mon resistance forces, NMSP-AD, MSRF, MSDF, and MLA, are cooperating militarily and politically against the junta. The aim is to consolidate all Mon forces into a unified army.
They believe that only a united front will enable them to undertake strategic offensive action, including capturing towns and military bases.
Dr. Thiri Mon Chan, a leader of the Department of Information and Public Relations of the Mon Federal Council, noted that preparations are underway to launch more intense battles in the Mon, Karen, and Tanintharyi regions during the high season as Mon forces strengthen their collaboration.
"During this coming open season, all Mon armed groups are uniting to launch a joint strategic planned military attack. To go beyond sporadic clashes or drone strikes, we need coordinated attacks to capture military positions. Preparations are already in place, and we're ready to launch more impactful offensive action than in previous years. We're much stronger this season," he explained, adding that People's Defense Force (PDF) units are also ready to join these operations.
Mon resistance forces are also expanding joint military operations with the Karen National Union (KNU) and local PDF units in Mon State.
The military junta has intensified its reinforcements and operations to counter the resistance offensive action, leading to heavy clashes in some areas.
Nai Naga, spokesperson for the MSRF, warned that increased clashes could cause more damage in Mon State. "Resistance forces will engage where military columns are deployed, which might lead to damage across Mon State, particularly along the Yangon-Mawlamyine and Mawlamyine-Ye roads and other active resistance areas. We've been in touch with international relief organizations regarding potential impacts," he stated.
Intense fighting between junta forces and resistance forces has been reported daily in parts of Thaton District.
The resistance forces have also urged civilians to avoid areas with military presence, camps, or checkpoints and to take precautions due to the potential for intensified fighting.
