By Andreas Lundberg 
A Thai F-16 fighter jet bombed military targets in Cambodia on Thursday, escalating a volatile border dispute that has claimed at least two civilian lives in Thailand, officials confirmed. The clash, centered around the contested Ta Moan Thom temple along the 817-km Thailand-Cambodia border, marks a sharp escalation in tensions following weeks of diplomatic friction.
Thailand’s army reported that one of six F-16 jets deployed along the border struck a Cambodian military target. Cambodia’s defense ministry condemned the attack, stating that two bombs were dropped on a road, describing it as “reckless and brutal military aggression” against its sovereignty. Both nations accused each other of initiating the conflict, which began early Thursday with exchanges of heavy artillery and rocket fire.
The violence follows Thailand’s recall of its ambassador to Cambodia on Wednesday and its decision to expel Cambodia’s envoy from Bangkok, triggered by landmine incidents that injured three Thai soldiers. Thailand alleges Cambodia recently planted the mines in the disputed area, a claim Phnom Penh denies, attributing the explosives to remnants of Cambodia’s civil war.
Cambodia reported that Thai troops made an “unprovoked incursion,” prompting defensive fire, while Thailand claimed Cambodian forces targeted a military base and civilian areas, including a hospital. In Thailand’s Surin province, district chief Sutthirot Charoenthanasak reported two civilian deaths and the evacuation of 40,000 residents from 86 villages to safer areas. Thai residents sought refuge in concrete shelters amid ongoing gunfire and explosions.
Thailand’s foreign ministry warned that it would intensify “self-defense measures” if Cambodia continues its alleged attacks. Cambodia, in turn, called for Thailand to withdraw its forces and avoid further provocation. The border closure by Thailand has further strained relations.
The dispute, rooted in a century-long disagreement over undemarcated border areas, was reignited in May after a Cambodian soldier’s death in a firefight. Recent diplomatic efforts, including a leaked call between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen, have fueled political turmoil in Thailand, leading to Shinawatra’s suspension by a court.
Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasized caution and adherence to international law, while Cambodia’s Hun Sen reported shelling in two Cambodian provinces. As both sides trade accusations, the international community watches closely, urging de-escalation to prevent further loss of life.
Dale Chaucer 
Ethan Caldwell