Since October 2026, the security situation in central Rakhine State has deteriorated significantly as intensified fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the Arakan Army (AA) has spread towards Sittwe and surrounding townships. Escalating hostilities, including aerial bombardments, artillery fire and ground confrontations, have increasingly affected civilian populations, resulting in casualties, displacement, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and growing protection risks for conflict-affected communities. The escalation is taking place within an already severe humanitarian crisis characterized by protracted displacement, movement restrictions, limited access to basic services and widespread vulnerability. Humanitarian access is becoming increasingly constrained, disrupting the delivery of life-saving assistance and reducing access to healthcare, education, protection services and livelihoods. An estimated one million people are affected by the deteriorating situation across central Rakhine, with needs expected to increase further as insecurity continues and communities' coping capacities are further eroded.