Thailand Launches Air Strikes on Cambodia Border

Thailand launched air strikes along its disputed border with Cambodia on Monday, escalating tensions after clashes that killed one Thai soldier and wounded four others in Ubon Ratchathani province. The Thai military described the attacks as a response to Cambodian forces opening fire on its troops near the Chong Bok area and other border points, including Phu Pha Lek and Phlan Hin Paet Kon.

According to a statement from the Royal Thai Army, the incident began around 2:15 p.m. local time when Cambodian troops fired recoilless rifles and small arms, prompting Thai forces to return fire and deploy aircraft to target military positions. Thai army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree confirmed the use of air power, stating it was coordinated with ground units to address immediate threats to personnel and border communities. Cambodian defense officials, however, reported that Thai forces initiated dawn attacks on positions in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, claiming their troops had not retaliated. Neither side has released casualty figures for Cambodian personnel, and independent verification of the sequence of events remains limited.