Tensions flared between Thailand and Cambodia on Thursday as the Thai military deployed F-16 fighter jets in response to reported Cambodian attacks on military bases along the northeastern border. The latest conflict marks a significant escalation in the longstanding territorial dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations.
According to a report by the Bangkok Post, the Royal Thai Army confirmed that by late Thursday morning, clashes were reported at six different locations along the contested border region. The military revealed that out of six F-16 fighter jets deployed, one aircraft crossed into Cambodian airspace and hit a military target.
"We have used air power against military targets as planned," said Thai army deputy spokesperson Richa Suksuwanon during a press briefing.
The Thai military reported that Cambodian soldiers opened fire at a Thai military base in Surin and launched rocket attacks aimed at Sisaket. As a precaution, the Thai Interior Ministry announced it had initiated evacuation efforts for civilians living in the volatile border areas.
In response, Cambodia's National Defence Ministry accused Thailand of launching an aggressive military operation using heavy weaponry, rockets, and airstrikes in a bid to seize Cambodian territory.
“These unlawful and irresponsible actions not only pose a grave threat to regional peace and stability but also undermine the foundation of international order,” said Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Cambodian defence ministry, as quoted by the Khmer Times.
The Cambodian military claimed that Thai jets had dropped two bombs on a road and accused Thailand of violating existing bilateral agreements by initiating open fire.
Both countries have traded accusations regarding the origin of the confrontation. The Thai Army stated that a Cambodian drone was spotted near the Ta Muen Thom temple at around 7:30 AM. Shortly after, around six armed Cambodian soldiers appeared in front of a Thai military base.
By 8:20 AM, according to Thai military officials, Cambodian forces opened fire. The 2nd Army Region of Thailand further alleged that Cambodian troops placed artillery in nearby civilian communities and used residents as human shields.
