The Olivers In Thailand

"Q+A-Will the conflict in northern Myanmar intensify?"

IS THE SITUATION LIKELY TO ESCALATE?

There are concerns that if the fighting intensifies, other members of the alliance
could enter the fray and provide a serious challenge to the Myanmar army,
resulting in fighting and heightening the risk of a refugee crisis for China.

The Wa group is a formidable fighting force, with at least 15,000 members,
and analysts say any clashes between the Wa and the army would be bloody.

A lot is at stake for all involved, China included, and neither side will want to
engage in any kind of protracted conflict. However, any wrong moves by forces
on the ground could trigger all-out war.