Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated dramatically, as military strikes continue despite claims from U.S. President Donald Trump that the two countries had reached an agreement to cease hostilities. The renewed conflict, which has its roots in a long-standing disagreement over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800-kilometer (500-mile) border, reignited this month, displacing approximately half a million people on both sides.
Clashes have led to the deaths of at least 20 individuals this week alone, with each nation blaming the other for the resurgence of violence. While there were initial signs of a potential easing of tensions following Trump’s announcement of a truce, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that military actions would continue until there was a perceived elimination of threats to Thai sovereignty and its citizens.
The Thai military confirmed that forces had launched retaliatory strikes against Cambodian military positions early Saturday morning, reportedly with air operations targeting specific infrastructure used to transport weapons. Thai navy officials asserted that their air force had effectively destroyed two bridges within Cambodian territory, generating further concern about the implications of such actions on civilian infrastructure.
The situation prompted a response from Cambodian officials, including Information Minister Neth Pheaktra, who accused Thai forces of broadening their attacks to include civilian targets. In contrast, Royal Thai Air Force spokesperson Chakkrit Thammavichai insisted that the military was using precision weaponry to minimize civilian casualties.
Earlier reports indicated that Trump had conducted what he described as a “very good conversation” with leaders from both nations. During this call, both sides had supposedly agreed to return to a previous peace accord established in July, which had briefly halted hostilities after initial claims of violence. Anutin stated that Cambodia would comply with the ceasefire, but insisted that any violations must be addressed.
Hun Manet, Cambodia’s Prime Minister, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to resolving the dispute through peaceful means. However, the cycle of tension continues as both sides remain skeptical of each other’s intentions.
Past diplomatic efforts, including ceasefire agreements brokered by the U.S., China, and Malaysia, initially appeared to find some traction. Nonetheless, the situation deteriorated in subsequent months, particularly after injuries occurred among Thai soldiers due to landmines near the border.
As hostilities persist, local sentiments remain fraught with distrust. Thai border evacuees like 39-year-old Kanyapat Saopria expressed skepticism regarding the viability of peace efforts, underscoring the challenges that lie ahead as both nations navigate the complexities of a long-standing border dispute.
