Thailand conducted airstrikes against Cambodian military positions, marking a significant escalation in a border conflict that seemed on the verge of collapse after Bangkok suspended progress on a US-supported ceasefire agreement.
The Thai army stated that the airstrikes were a response to artillery and mortar fire from Cambodia, which resulted in the death of one Thai soldier and injuries to two others earlier that morning. Major General Winthai Suvaree indicated that the operation aimed at “arms-supporting positions” near the Chong An Ma Pass, alleging that Cambodian units had been consistently shelling Thai territory. In contrast, Cambodia dismissed this narrative, claiming that Thai forces initiated the first attack around 5 a.m. and had engaged in “numerous provocative actions for many days”. Both parties reported intense exchanges along the border, with Thailand noting that approximately 70% of civilians in border towns had already been evacuated.
Ceasefire fails as renewed clashes and diplomatic tensions arise
The violence represents the most significant violation of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords, which were signed in late October and observed by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This agreement came after a brutal five-day conflict in July that resulted in numerous fatalities and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. However, tensions flared up almost immediately after Thailand halted the implementation of the agreement last month, attributing a landmine explosion that injured several Thai soldiers to what it alleged were newly placed Cambodian explosives. Subsequent incidents have occurred. A Thai soldier lost a foot due to a landmine explosion, leading Bangkok to publicly accuse Cambodia of rekindling hostilities. A Cambodian civilian was later reported dead in new exchanges near Prey Chan village, with both nations exchanging accusations of intentional escalation. Analysts indicate that the ceasefire was inherently unstable. Experts from Singapore and Bangkok observe that the agreement did not resolve the fundamental territorial dispute that has persisted for over a century. In the absence of a clear boundary demarcation, both parties continue to interpret border lines differently — especially concerning the disputed ancient temple complexes that have historically incited nationalist fervor.
Prolonged border conflict
Clashes have now extended to various flashpoints, encompassing regions close to Surin, Sa Kaeo, Oddar Meanchey, and historically disputed temple areas. Both parties assert the deployment of heavy artillery, while Thailand has charged Cambodia with launching BM-21 rockets into civilian areas and striking a hospital — allegations that Phnom Penh refutes. Diplomatic relations have significantly worsened, with both sides expelling their ambassadors in the past few weeks.
