Thailand Closes Border as Clashes with Cambodia Escalate

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

BANGKOK/PHNOM PENH — Thailand has officially closed its border with Cambodia as escalating armed clashes between the two Southeast Asian nations have led to the deaths of at least 11 Thai civilians, according to Thai health officials.

The Thai army reported the use of airstrikes and F-16 fighter jets against what it described as Cambodian military targets, following a dramatic escalation of violence along the disputed border regions. The Thai foreign ministry accused Cambodia of launching unprovoked artillery strikes that hit both military installations and civilian areas, including a hospital.

Thai authorities claim Cambodian forces opened fire early Thursday morning, shelling a Thai military base and adjacent civilian zones. In response, Thailand deployed air power “as planned”, stating that military targets were struck to neutralize threats near the Preah Vihear province, a long-contested border area.

The Cambodian Defense Ministry, however, has accused Thailand of initiating the attack, claiming its forces responded in self-defense.

Thailand’s Health Minister, Somsak Thepsuthin, confirmed the death of 11 Thai civilians, calling Cambodia’s shelling of a hospital an act that “constitutes a potential war crime.” He demanded an immediate cessation of violence and accountability from the Cambodian government.

Earlier military reports cited nine deaths, but the figure was updated as the situation worsened. At least two more civilians were reported killed during Cambodian rocket fire.

In a swift response, Thailand shut down key border crossings with Cambodia and deployed F-16 jets to patrol the area. The Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh has urged nationals to evacuate immediately, warning of further escalations.

Tensions between the two nations have been simmering for decades, often flaring around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site claimed by both countries.

The international community has expressed deep concern, urging both nations to exercise restraint and return to the negotiating table to avoid a broader conflict.

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