Deadly clashes have erupted along the Thailand–Cambodia border, leaving at least 12 people dead and forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes after a series of escalating attacks involving landmines, rocket fire, and airstrikes. The violence marks the most serious confrontation between the two countries in more than a decade.
The conflict intensified after landmine explosions on July 23 injured Thai soldiers in Ubon Ratchathani Province near the disputed frontier. Thailand accused Cambodia of planting the mines, a claim Cambodia denies. In the hours that followed, Cambodian forces launched rocket attacks on Thai border towns in Sisaket Province, hitting a petrol station and wounding patients at a hospital, which had to be evacuated. Thailand retaliated with F-16 fighter jets targeting Cambodian military positions near the Ta Muen Thom temple, a site long disputed by both countries.
Thailand–Cambodia border clashes escalate into deadly conflict with F-16 airstrikes, rocket attacks, and over 40,000 evacuations Photo Courtesy Sakchai Lalit/AP
Authorities confirmed that 11 civilians and one Thai soldier were killed, with most casualties occurring in Thailand’s Sisaket and Surin provinces. Cambodia has not released details on its losses. More than 40,000 people have been evacuated from Thai border areas, while thousands in Cambodia have also fled as artillery fire continues. Videos from the region show families hurriedly loading belongings into trucks as military convoys move through deserted towns.
Thailand has closed all border crossings with Cambodia and placed security forces on high alert, while Cambodia has reinstated mandatory military conscription, a move seen as preparation for a potential prolonged conflict. International concern is mounting as the fighting escalates. Reports confirm that ASEAN, the United Nations, and neighboring countries, including Malaysia and China, are calling for immediate restraint and dialogue to avoid a wider regional crisis.
The dispute stems from colonial-era border demarcations and has historically flared around ancient temple sites along the border area. Analysts warn that if the situation worsens, the repercussions could extend far beyond the border, impacting regional trade, tourism, and political stability across Southeast Asia.
