Thailand-Cambodia Conflict Escalates: Jets, Rockets, and Artillery in Deadly Border Clash
Phnom Penh / Bangkok: Tensions along the Thailand–Cambodia border exploded into violence on Thursday, as both nations traded airstrikes, rocket fire, and artillery in one of the most severe escalations in recent years.
The conflict centers around the disputed Emerald Triangle region — a sensitive zone where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos intersect, and which houses several centuries-old temples.
Six Fighter Jets, Rocket Attacks, and Civilian Deaths
According to the Thai military, six F-16 fighter jets were scrambled from Ubon Ratchathani province to strike Cambodian military targets after Cambodia fired BM-21 rockets and artillery shells, reportedly killing a Thai civilian and wounding three others, including a five-year-old.
The Thai Prime Minister’s office confirmed that a Cambodian shell struck a residential home near the border, prompting immediate military retaliation.
Disputed Temples at the Heart of the Violence
The clash occurred near Ta Muen temple — a historic site located between Thailand’s Surin province and Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey. Thai forces claim they were provoked by a Cambodian drone around 7:35 am, followed by armed soldiers approaching their post.
“Warnings were issued, but Cambodian forces opened fire around 8:20 am,” said a Thai military spokesperson, adding that the situation was triggered just 200 meters from a Thai base.
Both Sides Blame Each Other
Cambodia’s Defence Ministry called the Thai airstrikes a violation of its sovereignty, asserting that its forces only acted in self-defence, while accusing Thailand of launching an unprovoked armed assault.
Meanwhile, Thailand accused Cambodia of targeted attacks on civilians, saying that rocket fire landed inside populated areas of Surin’s Kap Choeng district.
Thailand Expels Ambassador, Cambodia Downgrades Ties
Earlier the same day, Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador and recalled its own envoy following a landmine incident that injured five Thai soldiers. Thai investigations claim new landmines were planted by Cambodia — a charge strongly denied by Phnom Penh.
In response, Cambodia downgraded diplomatic relations to the “lowest level”, recalling nearly all its diplomats and expelling Thai officials.
Internal Political Fallout in Thailand
The border conflict has also triggered a political crisis in Thailand, where Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended from office pending an ethics investigation. A leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and Cambodian leader Hun Sen further fueled tensions.
Cambodia Announces Mandatory Military Draft
Adding to the tension, Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet announced plans to conscript civilians starting next year, reviving a long-dormant national draft law.
Evacuation Advisory for Thai Nationals
Thailand’s embassy in Phnom Penh issued an urgent advisory for its citizens to leave Cambodia immediately, unless necessary, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the unfolding crisis.
Conclusion: A Dangerous Turning Point in a Decades-Old Dispute
The violent border clashes mark a dangerous new chapter in the long-standing Thailand–Cambodia dispute. With both sides blaming each other, diplomatic ties deteriorating, and the risk of further escalation rising, the region now faces its most volatile moment in over a decade.
FAQs
Q1. Why are Thailand and Cambodia fighting?
They are in a territorial dispute over the Emerald Triangle region, home to several ancient temples and sensitive borders.
Q2. How serious is the current conflict?
The use of fighter jets, rockets, and artillery makes this one of the most serious escalations in years, with civilian casualties and diplomatic fallout.
Q3. Who fired first?
Both nations accuse each other of initiating the attack. Independent confirmation remains unclear.
Q4. Is it safe to travel to Cambodia or Thailand now?
Thailand has advised its nationals to leave Cambodia. Travelers should follow government advisories and avoid the border regions.
Q5. What is the Emerald Triangle?
It is a tri-junction area where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos meet, known for its disputed temples and strategic importance.
