Thai Fighter Jets Conduct Airstrikes on Cambodian Positions Amid Border Conflict
In a significant escalation of border tensions, Thailand has used F-16 fighter jets to conduct airstrikes on Cambodian military positions following reported assaults by Cambodian forces near the contested northeastern boundary. The Royal Thai Army confirmed that an F-16 jet fired into Cambodian territory, successfully hitting a military target.
The Thai Army reported that clashes unfolded at six locations by late Thursday morning, leading to a swift aerial response. Thai army deputy spokesperson Richa Suksuwanon stated to reporters, “We have used air power against military targets as planned.”
According to official reports from Thailand, Cambodian soldiers initiated fire at a Thai base in Surin and carried out multiple rocket attacks towards Sisaket province. A social media screengrab captured the Cambodian attack on a Thai military installation, filmed by local residents.
The situation intensified when the Thai Army identified a Cambodian drone at 7:30 AM near the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple. Shortly thereafter, six armed Cambodian soldiers were observed advancing near a Thai base. By 8:20 AM, Cambodian troops were reportedly firing and setting up artillery in areas populated by civilians, using them as human shields, according to the 2nd Army Region.
The Thai military's official social media account stated, “All Thai F-16s have returned home safely and intact, after a rapid deployment to drop bombs on Cambodian battalions.” The Thai Interior Ministry is now taking measures to evacuate residents from vulnerable border regions as a precaution.
In response, Cambodia’s National Defence Ministry criticized Thailand’s use of heavy weaponry, rockets, and airstrikes, accusing Bangkok of breaching bilateral agreements and attempting to seize territory. Defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata told the Khmer Times, "These unlawful and irresponsible actions not only pose a grave threat to regional peace and stability but also undermine the foundation of international order.”
The Cambodian government further asserted that Thai jets had bombed a road within their territory, blaming Thailand for initiating the hostilities.
Both countries have since expelled diplomats and shut down several border crossings, with tensions escalating along the disputed frontier. Each nation has blamed the other for provoking the confrontation, while international observers urge immediate efforts to de-escalate the situation.
