BANGKOK — At least 12 people, including 11 civilians and one Thai soldier, have been killed amid escalating border clashes with Cambodia, Thai government officials confirmed on Thursday. The fatalities marked the deadliest confrontation between the two nations in over a decade.
Cambodian artillery shells struck multiple locations across three Thai provinces, including a collision at a gas station in Si Sa Ket that resulted in six civilian deaths, and another in Surin province near a hospital. An eight-year-old boy was among the casualties. Over 31 people were wounded, with six of the casualties occurring near the family petrol station triggered by BM‑21 rockets.
In retaliation to the shelling, Thailand deployed F‑16 jets, targeting Cambodian military positions. The Thai military reported destroying multiple tanks and a Cambodian base. All aircraft returned safely.
Escalation unfolds in many areas
The violence reportedly erupted near the Ta Muon Thom temple area, the site of the long-standing “Emerald Triangle” territorial dispute. Gunfire, rocket attacks, and drone activity were reported across six border areas, prompting mass evacuations.
Thai authorities evacuated over 40,000 civilians from 86 villages, many seeking refuge in concrete bunkers in Surin province.
Political fallout and international concern
Thai caretaker Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai called for immediate cessation of hostilities and affirmed Thailand’s commitment to act under international law. Meanwhile, Thai Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin denounced Cambodia’s targeting of civilian and medical sites as potential war crimes.
Cambodia, on its part, denies initiating the conflict, accusing Thai forces of aggression and unlawful encroachment. Prime Minister Hun Manet formally requested a United Nations Security Council meeting, accusing Thailand of pre‑meditated military aggression.
What’s driving the crisis
The triggering events began with a May skirmish in the Chang Bok area, where a Cambodian soldier was killed. Rising tensions were further fuelled by landmine incidents that injured Thai soldiers, blamed by Thailand on newly laid mines on agreed safe paths.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries have now reached their lowest point: ambassadors have been recalled, border crossings closed, and cultural and economic boycotts in place.
