Thailand has launched a new military offensive against Cambodia along their disputed border, escalating tensions despite international mediation efforts, including those by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Cambodia, in response, announced the closure of all border crossings with Thailand as violence continues to displace hundreds of thousands of people on both sides.

Background of the Conflict

The fighting stems from a long-standing territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the 800-kilometer (500-mile) Thailand-Cambodia border. The clashes have resulted in at least 25 deaths among soldiers and civilians and forced over half a million people to flee their homes in affected areas.

The latest offensive began in the early hours of Sunday in Trat province, a coastal region along the Thai-Cambodian border. Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, a Royal Thai Navy spokesperson, said the operation was aimed at reclaiming “Thai sovereign territory” and was conducted in accordance with principles of self-defense and international law.

Details of Thai Military Operations

Thailand’s military reported having successfully taken control of the targeted areas, expelling opposing forces and planting the Thai national flag to signify reclaimed territory. Operations are reportedly ongoing along multiple border points, including Surin’s Ta Khwai area, where ground, artillery, and drone attacks have occurred.

The Thai military also confirmed airstrikes, with F-16 fighter jets reportedly used in Pursat province’s Thma Da commune and artillery shells fired toward Boeung Trakoun village in Banteay Meanchey. Casualty figures from the latest skirmishes have not been released, and Cambodia has yet to issue an official statement.

Cambodia Shuts Border Crossings

In response to Thailand’s offensive, the Cambodian government suspended all entry and exit at border crossings with Thailand, effective immediately. The closure reflects the fraying relations between the neighbors despite mounting international pressure to resume peace talks.

International Mediation Efforts

Earlier on Saturday, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that both Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to a new ceasefire, a claim rejected by Thai officials. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the military would continue operations, while Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Trump’s statements did not accurately reflect the situation on the ground.

The ceasefire plan was initially brokered in July by Malaysia and reinforced in October at a regional meeting attended by Trump, following a skirmish on December 7 that wounded two Thai soldiers and derailed the previous truce.

Humanitarian Impact

The renewed fighting has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis along the border. Thousands of displaced residents from both Thailand and Cambodia have taken shelter in temporary camps, facing challenges such as lack of food, medical supplies, and security. Images from affected areas, including Banteay Meanchey and Si Sa Ket provinces, show civilians seeking refuge in makeshift centers amid the artillery and aerial bombardments.

The Thai Defence Ministry has imposed a curfew in Trat province to maintain order as military operations continue. Officials warn that the conflict will persist until both nations agree to genuine peace negotiations.