Deadly Assaults on Civilian Areas
Rising Casualties in Border Provinces
Cambodian forces launched deadly attacks on Thai territory, killing 12 people, including an eight-year-old boy, and injuring over 30, according to the Thai army. The strikes, which included artillery fire and BM-21 rockets, targeted civilian zones in Surin, Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani, and Buri Ram on Thursday, following an initial assault on a Thai military base near the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin.
Widespread Damage and Loss
Civilian Infrastructure Targeted
The attacks caused significant destruction, damaging homes, agricultural property, and livestock across the affected provinces. In Si Sa Ket’s Ban Phue, a rocket struck a supermarket at a petrol station, killing two students and injuring others. In Surin’s Kap Choeng district, two civilians, including a 12-year-old, died after rockets hit a village, highlighting the severe impact on non-combatant communities.
Emergency Evacuations Underway
Protecting Vulnerable Residents
Thai authorities have initiated large-scale evacuations, relocating up to 40,000 residents from 86 villages in Surin to emergency shelters in schools in the neighboring Prasat district. District chief Sutthiroj Charoenthanasak confirmed that shelters are adequately equipped, but ongoing artillery fire has prevented officials from fully assessing the attack sites, complicating rescue efforts.
Medical Response Mobilized
Public Health Minister Condemns Attacks
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin denounced Cambodia’s actions as inhumane and a violation of Thailand’s sovereignty. He announced the deployment of additional medical personnel and resources to treat the injured, with hospitals in Phanom Dong Rak and Kap Choeng evacuating patients due to nearby rocket strikes. The government is prioritizing emergency care to address the growing casualty toll.
Thai Army’s Firm Stance
Defending Sovereignty Against Aggression
The Royal Thai Army issued a strong condemnation of Cambodia’s targeting of civilians, describing it as a breach of humanitarian principles. The military vowed to take all necessary measures to protect Thailand’s sovereignty and its citizens, emphasizing readiness to counter further aggression while maintaining a commitment to national security.
Community Resilience Amid Crisis
Local Authorities Coordinate Response
Provincial governor Watthana Phutthichat reported ongoing efforts to manage the crisis in Si Sa Ket, where the supermarket attack left a devastating mark. Fire and rescue teams worked to extinguish fires and secure affected areas, while authorities urged residents to follow safety protocols. The Thai government remains focused on safeguarding its people and restoring stability in the face of continued hostilities.
