Thailand’s fighter jets attacked Cambodia on Monday to weaken its military capabilities, following renewed border hostilities that broke a fragile ceasefire initially mediated by U. S. President Donald Trump. Both Thailand and Cambodia blamed each other for starting the clashes, which led to the deaths of one Thai soldier and four Cambodian civilians. Cambodia condemned Thailand’s actions as aggressive while Thailand justified its air strikes as a response to Cambodia’s military movements.
The current fighting is the most intense since a series of clashes in July, which resulted in numerous casualties and the displacement of about 300,000 people before the ceasefire was established. Tensions escalated when Thailand suspended de-escalation measures after a soldier was injured by a landmine that Thailand claimed Cambodia had recently laid. Cambodia denied this, and Thailand stated it would not honor the ceasefire until Cambodia apologized.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared that there would be no negotiations with Cambodia unless Thailand’s demands were met. Cambodia’s defense ministry reported ongoing attacks but insisted it remained committed to the ceasefire. It called for international condemnation of Thailand’s actions. Thailand accused Cambodia of using drones and rocket fire against its bases.
Thailand launched air strikes targeting military installations, while officials indicated Cambodia’s military capability was being seriously challenged. The U. S. embassy in Thailand did not comment on the situation, but Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged calm and the importance of communication to maintain stability in the region.
Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen suggested Thailand’s military was trying to elicit a response from Cambodia. Meanwhile, Thailand evacuated 438,000 civilians from border areas as both sides reported injuries among their military personnel and civilians. Videos showed evacuation efforts and explosions from artillery fire.
The conflict reflects long-standing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia over territorial disputes along their 817-km border, which have included violent encounters and diplomatic failures. The recent incidents were sparked by earlier skirmishes that led to increased troop presence and ongoing disputes between the two nations.
With information from Reuters
