Thailand conducted air strikes on a disputed border area with Cambodia on Friday, intensifying tensions as negotiators from both countries continue discussions to end the ongoing hostilities. The attacks come despite ongoing ceasefire talks aimed at resolving the long-standing border dispute.

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Details of the Air Strikes

According to the Thai Air Force, the strikes targeted a Cambodian fortified military position after ensuring civilians had left the area. The Cambodian Defence Ministry, however, accused Thailand of “indiscriminate attacks”, claiming that several civilians were injured and homes were damaged.

The strikes took place in Banteay Meanchey province, in Cambodia’s northwestern border region. The ministry reported that up to 40 bombs were dropped by Thai F-16 fighter jets, while Thailand maintained that the operation was “carried out efficiently and successfully” to control Nong Chan village.

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Escalation of Fighting

The fighting resumed earlier this month following a fragile ceasefire in July, which had halted five days of intense clashes. Since the resumption of hostilities, nearly every province along the 500-mile (800 km) border has seen fighting.

• Casualties: At least 41 people have been killed since clashes reignited.
• Displacement: Nearly one million people have been forced from their homes due to the conflict.

Both Thailand and Cambodia have blamed each other for breaking the truce, and the escalation of violence has raised fears of a wider regional conflict.

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Ceasefire Talks and Mediation Efforts

Thai and Cambodian negotiators are currently holding their third day of talks at a border checkpoint, with defense ministers from both countries expected to join discussions on Saturday.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed hope for a lasting ceasefire:

“I hope this time will be the last one we’d have to sign, so that peace can occur in the area, [and] people can return to their homes.”

International mediators, including the United States and China, have been involved in efforts to broker a sustainable ceasefire agreement between the two nations.

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Historical Context

The Thailand-Cambodia border dispute dates back over a century, with sporadic clashes resulting in military and civilian casualties over the years. Key recent escalations include:

• May 2025: Tensions escalated after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border clash.
• July 24, 2025: A Cambodian rocket barrage into Thailand prompted Thai air strikes, triggering five days of intense fighting.

The border region remains highly militarized, and the ongoing dispute threatens the security and livelihoods of civilians on both sides.

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Humanitarian Impact

The resumption of fighting has caused a humanitarian crisis along the border. Displaced communities face shortages of food, water, and shelter, while access to basic services has been severely restricted. International organizations have called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties and mass displacement.

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Conclusion

The latest Thailand-Cambodia border air strikes underscore the fragility of peace in the region. Despite ongoing negotiations and international mediation, sporadic clashes and historical grievances continue to fuel tensions. The outcome of the ceasefire talks will be critical in determining whether civilians can safely return home and whether long-term stability can be restored along the border.