Thailand Conducts Air Strikes During Border Talks with Cambodia
Recent military engagements have occurred in the disputed border region between Thailand and Cambodia, coinciding with ongoing diplomatic negotiations aimed at de-escalation.
Resumption of Hostilities and Casualties
Earlier this month, hostilities recommenced following a previous ceasefire in July that had paused five days of significant border clashes. Both nations have issued statements assigning responsibility for the cessation of the truce to the other party. The renewed conflict has reportedly resulted in at least 41 fatalities and the displacement of approximately one million individuals. The geographic scope of the conflict has expanded to encompass nearly all provinces along the 800-kilometer border.
Friday's Military Actions and Accusations
On Friday, Thailand conducted air strikes in a disputed border zone with Cambodia. The Thai Air Force stated its forces targeted a "fortified military position" belonging to Cambodia, asserting that civilians had been evacuated from the area prior to the action. Thailand indicated that these operations aimed to establish control over Nong Chan village and were executed "efficiently and successfully."
In response, Cambodia's Ministry of Defense reported that the attacks occurred in Banteay Meanchey province in the north-west. The ministry accused Thailand of "indiscriminate attacks" affecting civilian residences and causing multiple injuries. Up to 40 bombs were reportedly deployed by F-16 fighter jets, according to a statement posted by the ministry on Facebook.
Diplomatic Efforts and Historical Context
These military actions took place as Thai and Cambodian negotiators were engaged in their third day of discussions at a border checkpoint. Defense ministers from both countries were scheduled to participate in these talks on Saturday.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated on Friday that a ceasefire agreement could be finalized once both sides reached consensus on terms. He expressed a desire for this to be the definitive agreement, facilitating peace and the return of displaced populations. The United States and China have also been involved in mediation efforts to secure a new ceasefire.
The territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia spans over a century, marked by intermittent clashes and casualties among both military personnel and civilians. Tensions increased in May after a Cambodian soldier was killed. A significant escalation occurred on July 24 when a Cambodian rocket barrage into Thailand was met with retaliatory Thai air strikes, leading to five days of fighting and numerous casualties.