Thailand Launches Air Strikes After Border Clash
Thailand has carried out air strikes along its border with Cambodia after a clash between the two armies left one Thai soldier dead and several others injured. The incident took place in Ubon Ratchathani province, close to disputed territory between both countries.
Clash And Response
Thai officials said the fighting began when Cambodian forces allegedly opened fire at a Thai patrol. In response, the Thai military used air power to target what it described as Cambodian positions across the frontier. Cambodia has denied starting the clash and accused Thailand of launching an unprovoked attack.
Thai authorities have not released casualty figures from the Cambodian side. Both countries claim that their forces acted in self-defence.
Ceasefire At Risk
The latest violence puts a fragile ceasefire agreement at risk. The two neighbours signed a temporary truce in October following earlier clashes that had displaced thousands of civilians. The recent exchange of fire has raised fears that the situation may escalate again, undoing months of diplomatic progress.
Officials on both sides have said they remain committed to discussions, but military movements along the border have increased since the incident.
Civilians Evacuated As Tension Grows
Thai authorities said several villages have been evacuated as a precaution. Local residents have been moved away from the conflict zone to temporary shelters. Aid groups warned that a prolonged conflict could create a humanitarian crisis in the border area.
Regional observers are calling for immediate talks to prevent further escalation.
