BANGKOK: Thailand launched airstrikes into Cambodian territory on Monday, marking a serious escalation in long-standing border tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
The Thai military said the strikes were in response to alleged Cambodian troop movements and an earlier attack that killed one Thai soldier and wounded four others. Bangkok claimed Cambodian forces had deployed “heavy arms” near disputed zones, prompting retaliatory action.
Cambodia has denied initiating the attack and condemned Thailand’s use of air power, asserting that its forces had not fired on Thai positions. The Cambodian government called for restraint and urged the international community to help prevent further escalation.
The border between the two nations has been a flashpoint for decades, with overlapping territorial claims and previous clashes causing casualties and displacement.
Earlier this year, a ceasefire mediated by international actors temporarily eased tensions, but the recent violence demonstrates the fragility of peace in the region.
Thousands of civilians near the disputed border are being evacuated, with reports of disruption to homes, schools, and local trade. Regional observers warn that the renewed fighting could destabilize Southeast Asia, complicate diplomatic relations, and further strain cross-border commerce.
The international community has called for immediate de-escalation, with ASEAN and other organizations monitoring developments closely.–Reuters
