Thai Air Force Responds to Attacks
F-16s Target Cambodian Military Sites
Thailand launched air strikes on two Cambodian military targets on Thursday, intensifying a volatile border conflict. Six F-16 fighter jets, deployed from Ubon Ratchathani, struck the targets in response to Cambodian forces firing on a Thai military base in Surin and launching rockets into Si Sa Ket. Colonel Ritcha Suksuwanon, a Royal Thai Army deputy spokesperson, confirmed the precision strikes were part of a planned defensive operation.
Cambodian Aggression Sparks Conflict
Rocket Attacks and Civilian Injuries
The hostilities began early Thursday when Cambodian soldiers fired on the Moo Pa military base in Surin at 8:20 am, following the detection of a Cambodian drone near the Ta Muen Thom temple ruins. By 9:40 am, BM-21 rocket launchers targeted the Don Tuan temple ruins in Si Sa Ket, and gunfire struck a residential area in Surin’s Kap Choeng district, injuring at least three civilians. The Thai army accused Cambodia of using civilians as human shields by positioning artillery in populated areas.
Civilian Evacuations Underway
Protecting Border Communities
The Thai Interior Ministry has initiated evacuations in four border provinces—Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, and Buriram—as a precautionary measure. The decision follows a series of attacks, including a landmine explosion on Wednesday that injured five Thai soldiers, one critically. Authorities are prioritizing civilian safety as the conflict disrupts communities near the disputed border areas.
Thailand’s Defensive Measures
Sealing Borders and Closing Sites
Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, commander of the 2nd Region Army, ordered the closure of temple ruins in Surin and sealed the border to curb further escalation. The Thai military’s response, including the air strikes, aims to protect national sovereignty while addressing Cambodia’s alleged violations, such as recently planted landmines that Thailand claims breach international agreements.
Cambodia’s Counterclaims
Hun Manet Defends Military Response
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces attacked Cambodian military positions at Preah Vihear and Ta Krabei temples in Oddar Meanchey province. In a social media post, he claimed Cambodia prefers peaceful resolutions but was forced to respond militarily to what he described as a Thai invasion. The conflicting narratives highlight the deepening rift between the two nations.
Diplomatic Fallout and International Appeals
Thailand Seeks UN Action
Thailand has escalated diplomatic measures by expelling Cambodia’s ambassador and recalling its own envoy from Phnom Penh. The government briefed foreign diplomats and is pursuing action under the UN’s Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention while engaging in bilateral talks to de-escalate. Despite a history of border tensions, including a deadly 2011 conflict, Thailand rejects Cambodia’s call for International Court of Justice intervention, asserting the court lacks jurisdiction.
