Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated into open conflict along the shared border, leaving at least two civilians dead and prompting Thailand to announce the full closure of its border with Cambodia.
According to Thai authorities, a 12-year-old child and an adult were killed when Cambodian forces launched two BM-21 rocket attacks on a Thai village near the frontier. The incident was confirmed by a Thai government official and reported by the BBC.
In response, Thailand declared that it will shut down all border crossings with Cambodia “until further notice,” citing escalating security threats.
Meanwhile, the Cambodian government has announced the downgrading of diplomatic relations with Thailand to the lowest possible level. Phnom Penh has ordered its entire diplomatic staff in Bangkok to return home.
Thailand’s Royal Air Force stated that all F-16 fighter jets deployed during an emergency operation have returned safely after carrying out bombing missions against Cambodian battalions. The Thai military characterized these airstrikes as defensive in nature.
However, Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense has condemned Thailand’s response, accusing its neighbor of excessive use of force and labeling the airstrikes a “grave threat to regional peace and stability.” The ministry also claimed that Thai forces are using heavy weaponry and aerial assaults to forcibly seize Cambodian territory.
Further reports from the Thai military confirm that several individuals were injured in a Cambodian strike on Phanom Dong Rak hospital inside Thai territory. Details regarding the extent of injuries and property damage are still emerging.
This confrontation marks one of the most serious escalations between the two Southeast Asian nations in recent years. Both countries have historically had border disputes, often centered on contested land and nationalist sentiments.
Calls for restraint have begun circulating among international observers, though no official response from ASEAN or the United Nations has been issued at this time.
The situation remains volatile, with fears that continued hostilities could spiral into a broader regional crisis unless immediate diplomatic efforts are undertaken.
