General Twan Mrat Naing: Political Dialogue Impossible While Military Continues Airstrikes on Civilians ; Will Not Succumb to Pressure
May 5, 2026 | Burma Independent Voice
In an exclusive interview with The Diplomat, General Twan Mrat Naing, leader of the Arakan Army (AA), stated that engaging in political dialogue will remain difficult as long as the coup-leading military continues to conduct airstrikes against civilian populations.
“Political discussion and stability benefit everyone. However, as long as the military is bombing civilians from the air, it will be hard to discuss a political process,” General Twan Mrat Naing said. He further added that the Myanmar military seeks to negotiate only from a position of superiority and asserted that the Arakan Army would not yield to such pressure.
During the interview, General Twan Mrat Naing also expressed a desire for cooperation between the Arakan Army and the new government in Bangladesh. Regarding the ascension of the new government (BNP) in Bangladesh, he remarked, “We want to work together with Bangladesh to create a positive environment.” The AA leader also noted that recognizing and supporting the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government is a necessary step for the eventual return of Rohingya refugees.
Concerning India, he stated that the Arakan Army is ready to assist in the success of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and hopes to collaborate with India on regional security matters.
General Twan Mrat Naing also addressed recent criticisms regarding human rights violations. Responding to allegations of forced recruitment and rights abuses by the Arakan Army, the General countered, “These are accusations using human rights laws as a weapon.” He acknowledged that building trust with the Muslim (Rohingya) community would take time but emphasized that cooperation would be strengthened moving forward.
According to The Diplomat, the in-person interview was conducted by journalist Rajeev Bhattacharyya on March 2 at an undisclosed location in Rakhine State. During the meeting, General Twan Mrat Naing reportedly provided candid responses regarding negotiations with the Myanmar military council, relations with India and Bangladesh, and the various human rights allegations.
