Thailand–Cambodia Border Clash Kills Dozens
Heavy fighting broke out along the Thailand–Cambodia border, leaving at least 14 people dead and forcing over 100,000 to flee their homes. The clash, which started on July 24 and continued into the following day, involved rocket attacks, artillery fire, and air strikes.
Cambodian Rockets Hit Thai Civilian Areas
The conflict began when Cambodian forces reportedly launched a series of BM-21 rocket strikes and artillery shells into Thai territory. The bombardment hit several civilian sites in Thailand’s Surin and Srisaket provinces, including a hospital, a petrol station, and residential zones. Among the 14 reported deaths, at least 13 were civilians, including women and children.
Thailand Responds With Air Strikes
In retaliation, the Thai Air Force deployed six F-16 fighter jets to target Cambodian military installations. The Thai military stated that the strikes neutralized two artillery units and a rocket launch site near the border. The response came hours after a Thai soldier was critically injured by a landmine near the Ta Muen Thom temple area.
Evacuations and Tensions Rise
With shells landing close to villages, Thai authorities began large-scale evacuations across the border districts. Over 100,000 people were moved to safer areas as both nations exchanged fire. Emergency shelters have been set up, and local hospitals are treating several injured civilians.
Diplomatic Breakdown
The skirmish has triggered a diplomatic fallout. Both countries expelled each other’s ambassadors, suspended border trade, and shut down official crossings. Cambodia has also called for an urgent international intervention to prevent further violence.
History of Dispute
The latest violence stems from a longstanding territorial dispute around ancient temple sites, particularly the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples. Although a 1962 international court ruling awarded Preah Vihear to Cambodia, the border remains contested, and both sides have accused each other of encroachment in the past.
