Thailand has conducted air strikes on a disputed border area with Cambodia, escalating tensions as officials from both nations engage in ceasefire negotiations. On Friday, the Thai Air Force targeted what it described as a “fortified military position” in Cambodia’s north-western Banteay Meanchey province, following the evacuation of civilians from the area. The Cambodian defense ministry condemned the air strikes, alleging “indiscriminate attacks” that resulted in civilian injuries.
This latest round of hostilities marks a significant escalation in a conflict that reignited earlier this month after a fragile ceasefire concluded in July. Since then, at least 41 people have been killed and nearly one million displaced due to renewed fighting. Both nations have accused each other of violating the truce.
The conflict has spread along the 800-kilometer border, with reports indicating that up to 40 bombs were deployed by Thai F-16 fighter jets during the recent strikes. Thailand’s military characterized the operation as “efficient and successful,” aimed at regaining control over the village of Nong Chan.
As air strikes occurred, Thai and Cambodian negotiators were engaged in their third day of discussions at a border checkpoint. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed optimism that a ceasefire agreement could be finalized soon, stating, “I hope this time will be the last one we’d have to sign, so that peace can occur in the area,” allowing displaced individuals to return home.
The United States and China have been involved in mediating efforts to establish a new ceasefire. The longstanding border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia dates back over a century, with sporadic clashes resulting in casualties among both military personnel and civilians.
Tensions significantly escalated in May following the death of a Cambodian soldier during a confrontation, culminating in a dramatic incident on July 24, 2023, when a Cambodian rocket barrage targeted Thailand, prompting retaliatory air strikes. This sequence of events led to a five-day period of intense fighting that claimed numerous lives.
As both nations work toward a diplomatic resolution, the situation remains precarious, with the potential for further violence looming. The outcome of the ongoing negotiations will be crucial in determining whether peace can finally be achieved along the troubled border.
