At least 11 Thai civilians killed in Cambodian border conflict, says Thai government Sourced from Reuters, AP, AFP |
Tensions have escalated dramatically along the Thailand-Cambodia border after a deadly exchange of fire prompted the Royal Thai Air Force to launch an airstrike on a Cambodian military target — marking a rare and serious military escalation in the region.
The clash, which follows weeks of simmering border disputes, has left at least two Thai civilians dead and several others, including a five-year-old child, injured by Cambodian shelling. In response, Thailand deployed one of its F-16 fighter jets, which struck a military position inside Cambodian territory.
Villages Evacuated, Civilians in Peril
Thailand's Surin province has borne the brunt of the fallout, with over 40,000 civilians evacuated from 86 villages near the frontier. Residents were seen running for cover from incoming fire, and concrete bunkers became makeshift shelters amid the violence.
On the Cambodian side, officials reported Thai shelling across two provinces, with roads and military infrastructure damaged. A Cambodian defence spokesperson described the attack as "reckless and brutal", and claimed their troops were acting in self-defence after an unprovoked Thai incursion.
Disputed Temples and a Century-Old Feud
The root of the conflict lies in a long-standing territorial dispute over the Emerald Triangle region, where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge. The area, home to ancient Khmer temples such as Ta Muen Thom, has been the site of armed clashes dating back decades — including a deadly flare-up as recently as May.
Thai officials claim Cambodian forces fired the first shots, while Cambodian authorities insist they were responding to Thai aggression near the temple zone.
Diplomacy Falters as Militaries Mobilize
With emotions running high, both nations have recalled their ambassadors, and diplomatic relations have soured further after landmines injured five Thai patrol soldiers. Thai authorities allege the mines were recently planted and of Russian origin, while Cambodia insists they are remnants of past wars.
In a controversial move, Cambodia's government has announced mandatory military conscription for men beginning in 2026, citing the rising tensions. This marks the first enforcement of a dormant draft law in years.
Leaked Call Fuels Political Turmoil in Thailand
To add fuel to the fire, a private diplomatic call between Thailand’s suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former ruler Hun Sen was leaked, sparking a political storm. Thailand’s ethics probe into Paetongtarn’s conduct has added domestic instability to the already volatile situation.
Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai urged restraint, stating, “The situation requires careful handling, and we must act in accordance with international law. But we will do our best to protect our sovereignty.”
Meanwhile, Cambodia’s current Prime Minister Hun Manet, the son of Hun Sen, has called for calm — but reaffirmed the strength and readiness of Cambodia’s armed forces.
Embassy Warning Issued
Thailand’s embassy in Phnom Penh has issued a travel advisory, urging Thai nationals to leave Cambodia immediately unless absolutely necessary.
What’s Next?
With both nations entrenched and emotions running high, the situation remains extremely fragile. Diplomats are working behind the scenes to prevent a broader regional conflict, but nationalist sentiments and military posturing are making peace a tough sell.
This developing story is being closely watched across Southeast Asia — and the world — as two neighbours with intertwined histories face off once again over a volatile strip of land.
📌 Sources: Reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP | Additional context from Thai and Cambodian government statements.
Summary :
A serious military conflict has erupted along the Thailand-Cambodia border, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 Thai civilians, including 2 confirmed dead and a child injured from Cambodian shelling. In response, Thailand launched an airstrike using an F-16 jet on a Cambodian military site.
Over 40,000 people have been evacuated from Thailand’s Surin province due to the fighting. The cause of the conflict is a long-standing border dispute over the Emerald Triangle region, home to ancient temples. Each country blames the other for firing first.
Tensions are rising:
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Landmines have injured Thai soldiers.
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Both countries have recalled their ambassadors.
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Cambodia has announced military conscription starting in 2026.
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A leaked call between Thailand’s suspended PM and Cambodia’s ex-leader has worsened political tensions.
Thailand’s embassy in Phnom Penh has urged its citizens to leave Cambodia immediately. Diplomats are working to prevent war, but the situation remains dangerous and unstable.