Thailand launched air strikes on Cambodia today following a deadly clash along their disputed border that claimed the life of a Thai soldier. Tensions flared early Monday in Ubon Ratchathani province, where Cambodian troops reportedly fired on Thai forces. According to Thai army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree, “Thai soldiers were attacked with supporting fire weapons, resulting in one soldier killed and four wounded.”
In response, Thailand deployed aircraft to target Cambodian military positions, aiming to suppress further attacks.
Cambodia, however, accused Thailand of initiating the aggression. Defence ministry spokesperson Maly Socheata said Thai forces targeted Cambodian troops in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, allegedly firing tanks near the Tamone Thom temple and surrounding areas. Cambodia claims it did not retaliate.
Local officials also reported civilian disruptions. Met Measpheakdey, a spokesman for Oddar Meanchey province, said gunfire erupted near the centuries-old Tamone Thom and Ta Krabei temples, prompting villagers near the border to flee for safety. Meanwhile, Thailand evacuated approximately 35,000 residents from border areas, according to the country’s Second Army Region.
Both sides reported minor skirmishes on Sunday, leaving two Thai soldiers wounded. Earlier this year, a five-day series of clashes resulted in 43 deaths and displaced around 300,000 people before a truce was established, brokered in part by the US, China, and Malaysia through ASEAN.
Despite agreements, tensions have persisted. Last month, Thailand suspended a bilateral deal following a suspected landmine attack that injured several soldiers. Subsequent border clashes prompted renewed accusations, with Cambodia reporting the death of a civilian.
The conflict stems from a long-standing border dispute dating back to French colonial rule, with both nations claiming historical temples along the frontier.
As this human tragedy unfolds, the immediate concern remains the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire. Families in border villages are once again facing the harrowing choice between staying in their homes or fleeing to safety, highlighting the real human cost behind territorial disputes.
