Thailand and Cambodia traded the heaviest artillery exchange in more than a decade on Friday as clashes at the border entered their second day. At least 16 have been killed. More than 100,000 civilians have fled Thailand’s conflict areas. Each side accuses the other of instigating Thursday’s violence, which quickly escalated from bullets to rocket systems.
Fighting persists despite increased international pressure, including that of ASEAN and the US. Thailand has employed F-16 fighter jets, showcasing its military superiority. Cambodia labels it “reckless aggression.” Diplomatic talks remain out of reach as tensions escalate to new heights.
Battles Extend Throughout Provinces
The Thai military reported early morning battles in Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces. Cambodian troops initiated intense shelling with heavy arms and Russian-supplied BM-21 rocket launchers.
Thai troops retaliated with what officials described as “appropriate supporting fire.” Military convoys of tanks and armoured cars rolled into the frontline, slicing through paddy fields and local roads in Surin.
At least six points along the 130-mile-long border saw heavy shelling. Reporters in Surin heard periodic booms and witnessed a heightened troop presence near gas stations and main roads.
Diplomatic Breakdown Fuels Fire
The fighting started hours after a deep diplomatic split. Thailand’s ambassador was recalled, and Cambodia’s envoy was sent packing. This followed a Thai soldier losing an arm to a landmine, which Thailand accuses Cambodian soldiers of recently placing.
Cambodia dismissed the accusation as unfounded. Nevertheless, the shooting began shortly thereafter, getting out of hand within hours.
Increasing Death Toll and Displacement
Thailand reported 15 fatalities by early Friday, of which 14 were civilians. The Ministry of Health added that 46 others were injured, including 15 soldiers.
Official casualty figures have not been released by Cambodia. One civilian was killed and five others were injured in Oddar Meanchey province. Local officials evacuated 1,500 families.
Thailand evacuated more than 100,000 individuals from war zones. The military confirmed the unusual combat deployment of six F-16 fighter planes. One plane bombed a Cambodian target on Thursday.
Calls for Ceasefire Become More Insistent
A treaty ally of Thailand, the United States, called for both sides to stop fighting and safeguard civilians. ASEAN chairperson and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim met with both leaders. He received their “positive signals” and expressed willingness to assist in mediating.
He emphasised the importance of dialogue, unity, and regional stability. “Malaysia stands ready to assist,” Anwar stated on social media.
Military Disbalance Leads to Risk
Thailand’s deployment of F-16s demonstrates its air power superiority. Cambodia has no fighter jets. It also does not have the defence hardware and personnel Thailand has, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
As the second day of conflict concludes, concerns of expanded conflict increase. Lacking instant negotiations, the unstable frontier can drift further into disarray.
