Bangkok, December 23rd, 2025–
Cambodian forces intensified their artillery barrage on parts of Thailand’s eastern Sa Kaeo province on Monday, killing one Thai soldier and destroying several civilian village houses, according to Thai military reports. The attack, involving over 180 BM-21 rocket rounds targeted at three key areas, marks a continuation of the deadly border conflict that has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, killed multiple people on both sides, and drawn international concern since early December.
The incident occurred amid heavy exchanges of fire along the shared border, with Thai forces responding with tank artillery and F-16 airstrikes on Cambodian positions. Eyewitnesses in the affected villages, including Ban Nong Chan and Nong Ya Kaeo in the Khok Sung district, reported hearing continuous explosions, forcing residents to flee to safer areas. Thai authorities confirmed the soldier’s death but reported no additional civilian casualties in this specific barrage, though earlier attacks have caused widespread property damage across multiple provinces, including Surin, Buriram, and Trat.
Thai-language media outlets have provided detailed accounts of the escalating violence, discussing Cambodia’s aggressive tactics. Media reports that Cambodian troops have been reinforcing their strongholds and firing artillery and mortars intermittently, with clashes persisting into over two weeks of clashes now. Thai Media described scenes of intense combat in areas like Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, where Cambodian forces are allegedly stockpiling weapons and supplies, leading to sustained barrages that have shaken local communities. Thai media also noted the deployment of Thai F-16 jets for precision strikes on Cambodian mortar positions and bridges, such as the K5 bridge near Ban Nong Chan, aimed at disrupting supply lines.The conflict, which began with a 30-minute skirmish on December 7th over disputed border territories, has roots in long-standing territorial disputes, including areas near the Preah Vihear temple. Both sides have accused each other of provocations. As of December 22nd, Thai military sources reported at least 21 soldiers killed in the fighting, with civilian evacuations ongoing in border provinces. Cambodia does not officially release casualties.
Prospects for Ceasefire Discussions
Despite the heightened tensions, there are signs of potential de-escalation through diplomatic channels. An emergency ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting held on December 22nd in Malaysia failed to secure an immediate ceasefire, but both nations agreed to continue talks via the bilateral General Border Committee (GBC). The GBC, comprising defense officials from Thailand and Cambodia, is scheduled to convene on December 24tg to discuss the resumption of a truce originally brokered earlier in the conflict but violated amid mutual accusations.Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow discussed three key principles for the talks: Cambodia must first declare a unilateral ceasefire, the truce must be verifiable, and it should align with ground realities to ensure sustainability. Cambodian officials, meanwhile, have expressed willingness to resume the peace accord, with hopes that the GBC meeting could lead to a monitored cessation of hostilities. ASEAN leaders have welcomed the shift to bilateral discussions, urging a rapid end to the violence that has already displaced communities on both sides.
International observers, including the U.S., have called for restraint, noting the conflict’s potential to destabilize the region. As fighting persists, the upcoming GBC talks represent a critical opportunity for dialogue, though success hinges on both parties’ political will amid entrenched positions.
Photos Royal Thai Army
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
