Thailand Conducts Air Strikes at Cambodia Border, Breaking Ceasefire

Renewed tensions have erupted on the Thailand–Cambodia border as Thai military forces launched air strikes early Sunday, resulting in the death of one soldier and injuries to four others, as reported by the Royal Thai Army. This incident follows a fragile ceasefire that temporarily halted a deadly five-day conflict between the two countries in July.

Col. Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Thai Army, stated that the air strikes were executed in response to an attack on Thai troops with supporting fire weapons, which necessitated a retaliatory aerial strike. "One Thai soldier lost his life, and four others were injured in the attack," he confirmed.

Cambodia Condemns Strikes as ‘Grave Violation’

In a sharply worded statement, Cambodia’s Ministry of Defence reported that Thai forces initiated attacks at 05:04 AM in the An Ses area of Preah Vihear province. Phnom Penh emphasized that its forces refrained from retaliation, maintaining a stance of “vigilant and utmost caution”.

The statement declared, “Cambodia condemns in the strongest possible terms the inhumane and brutal acts undertaken by the Thai side.” It further accused the strikes of being a “grave violation” of the Joint Declaration signed on October 26, 2025, with U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim present as facilitators of the expanded ceasefire agreement.

Background: A Dispute Rooted in Colonial-Era Maps

The border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia are deeply rooted in disputes over territories delineated during French colonial times. Several temple complexes along the border, including the historically disputed Preah Vihear region, are claimed by both countries.

In July 2025, the conflict intensified into fierce clashes lasting five days, causing 43 fatalities and displacing nearly 300,000 civilians, before an initial truce was brokered with the assistance of the U.S. and Malaysia.

Ceasefire Under Strain

Despite the expanded ceasefire agreement reached in October, both nations have since accused each other of violations. The escalation on Sunday represents the most significant breach since the truce, heightening concerns about the stability of the border in Southeast Asia.