Large 'bomber drones' found in southern Thailand; Jemaah Islamiyah isn’t dead – it is evolving
And more news in this latest weekly Southeast Asia armed conflict summary (9-15 June 2025).
Southeast Asia faced continued insurgency, terrorism, and geopolitical tensions as regional and international actors responded to rising security threats.
In Thailand, authorities raised concerns after discovering large “bomber drones” in the restive south. Meanwhile, tensions with Cambodia over a border dispute appeared to ease after weeks of tough rhetoric. Separately, an Air India flight made an emergency landing in Phuket following a bomb threat, though no explosives were found.
In Myanmar, heavy fighting persisted as the junta advanced into Karenni State and launched a counteroffensive in the jade-rich Hpakant area. Airstrikes on schools in western Myanmar killed at least seven civilians, with accusations that cluster bombs were used in Karen State. The junta reinforced positions in Tanintharyi Region and the China-backed Kyaukphyu SEZ, while also preparing for controversial elections. Meanwhile, a fighter jet was downed by resistance forces, killing four people. Internationally, China defended the junta’s human rights record at the UN. The Arakan Army continued advancing on Kyaukphyu, triggering civilian displacement. Resistance group TNLA reportedly faced Chinese pressure in Shan State, while the tourism sector mocked the junta’s efforts to attract Russian visitors. Rights abuses continued, with a child reportedly listed as an assassination suspect by junta media. South Korea cancelled a refugee resettlement plan from Thailand’s camps. Political prisoner Wai Moe Naing was transferred to another prison, while renewed attacks resumed following a ceasefire extension. Analysis highlighted the evolution of the military’s propaganda and the complex role of illicit networks in the Shan State Army. The junta also approved the Rakhine Nationalities Party's participation in elections amid opposition boycotts.
In the Philippines, escalating maritime tensions saw China's military conduct South China Sea patrols and issue warnings to Manila, while the U.S. and Japan reaffirmed their defence commitments to the Philippines. The Philippine army planned deployments to the disputed islands. Internally, multiple clashes occurred with communist insurgents. Key rebel leaders were killed or arrested in Eastern Samar and Agusan del Sur, while surrenders continued across several provinces, including Bukidnon, South Cotabato, and Negros Occidental. Security forces seized arms caches in Zambales and Samar, and 51 loose firearms were surrendered in Lanao del Norte. Authorities granted safe conduct passes to 25 former rebels, while nearly 3,000 applied for amnesty. The government declared Basilan province free from the Abu Sayyaf terror group, though rebuilding efforts in Marawi remained slow. In Mindoro, infrastructure projects were proposed to counter insurgency. The Communist Party paid tribute to the late Luis Jalandoni, while the Bangsamoro government hailed victories over the Abu Sayyaf Group. Legislators urged the president to veto a firearms bill seen as undermining peace efforts. Meanwhile, 41 Chinese vessels were sighted in the West Philippine Sea. The country was also ranked the world’s most dangerous nation in a new global survey.
In Indonesia, Hizbut Tahrir activists are said to continue pushing for a caliphate while…