Al Jazeera reports that the Myanmar military is recapturing key towns from rebel forces, reversing the gains made by the rebels in 2023 and 2024. Analysts attribute this shift primarily to large-scale conscription (approximately 150,000 troops added since 2024), continuous airstrike operations (e.g., over 2,500 airstrikes in Falam town), and support from China. China has mediated some ceasefire agreements and helped cut off weapon supplies to the rebel forces. According to data from the independent think tank ISP-Myanmar, the military has recaptured 22 of the 101 towns lost since the coup. These areas are strategically significant, connecting border trade corridors with major central bases.