Tensions flared once again between Thailand and Cambodia as Thai forces launched air strikes following a deadly clash on the disputed border, which claimed the life of a Thai soldier. The renewed violence highlights the fragile peace along the centuries-old boundary that has long been a source of dispute between the two nations.
According to Thai army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree, Cambodian troops fired on Thai forces early this morning in Ubon Ratchathani province. The attack, involving supporting fire weapons, left one Thai soldier dead and four others injured. In response, Thailand began using aircraft to target Cambodian military positions to suppress further attacks.
Cambodia’s defence ministry, however, claims that it was Thai forces who initiated the assault in the border provinces of Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey, targeting historic sites like Tamone Thom and areas near Preah Vihear temple. Cambodian authorities insist they did not retaliate, but local residents report gunfire in the area, prompting some villagers to flee to safety.
The Thai Second Army Region confirmed that approximately 35,000 people have been evacuated from border areas, while the Thai army accused Cambodian forces of firing rockets toward civilian zones in Buri Ram province, fortunately causing no casualties.
This incident follows a brief skirmish reported on Sunday, which wounded two Thai soldiers, and comes after a summer of clashes that left 43 dead and displaced nearly 300,000 people. Previous ceasefires, brokered by the United States, China, and Malaysia through ASEAN, had temporarily restored peace.
While diplomatic efforts continue, the long-standing dispute dates back to borders drawn during French colonial rule, with both nations claiming ownership of several historical temples along the frontier. The human cost of these tensions is felt most acutely by local communities, whose lives and homes hang in the balance.
As the region watches closely, there is hope that dialogue and diplomacy will prevent further loss of life and help communities return to safety and stability.
