Thailand Conducts Airstrikes During Ongoing Border Negotiations with Cambodia

Renewed Hostilities and AirstrikesOn Friday, Thailand conducted airstrikes in a disputed border area with Cambodia while officials from both nations continued talks aimed at ending recent hostilities. Renewed fighting between Thailand and Cambodia commenced earlier this month, following an earlier ceasefire in July that had temporarily halted five days of intense border clashes. Both nations have attributed the breakdown of the truce to the other party.The Thai Air Force reported hitting a Cambodian "fortified military position" after civilians had evacuated the area. Conversely, Cambodia's defense ministry stated Thailand conducted "indiscriminate attacks" against civilian residences, resulting in injuries to several individuals.Escalation and ImpactSince the resumption of hostilities, at least 41 people have been reported killed, and approximately one million have been displaced. The conflict has extended across nearly every province along the 800km (500-mile) border.Cambodia's defense ministry confirmed Friday's attacks occurred in the northwestern Banteay Meanchey province. The ministry's Facebook post indicated that up to 40 bombs were dropped by F-16 fighter jets. Thailand stated the objective of the action was the control of Nong Chan village, describing the operation as "efficient and successful."Diplomatic EffortsThe airstrikes occurred as Thai and Cambodian negotiators participated in their third day of talks at a border checkpoint. Defense ministers from both countries are scheduled to join the discussions on Saturday.Thai Prime Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated on Friday that a ceasefire agreement could be signed once both parties agree to each other's conditions. He expressed hope that this would be "the last time we'd have to sign, so that peace can occur in the area," and people could "return to their homes." The United States and China have also engaged in mediation efforts to establish a new ceasefire.Historical ContextThe territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia spans over a century and has involved sporadic clashes, resulting in casualties among both soldiers and civilians over the years. Tensions escalated in May following the death of a Cambodian soldier in a clash. On July 24, the situation further intensified after a Cambodian rocket barrage into Thailand, which was subsequently met with Thai air strikes. This event initiated five days of intense fighting, which resulted in the deaths of numerous soldiers and civilians.