Heightened Tensions: Thailand Bombs Cambodia Border Amid Ongoing Conflict

Thu Dec 18 2025 18:20:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Thailand has launched airstrikes near the Cambodia border at Poipet, intensifying an already volatile situation that has left dozens dead and thousands displaced.

Thailand's recent airstrikes targeting what it claims is a Cambodian rocket storage facility near the Poipet border crossing mark a significant escalation in ongoing violence between the two countries. The bombings have led to tragic civilian casualties and forced the closure of land borders, stranding thousands. A ceasefire brokered earlier has collapsed, reigniting fears of a broader conflict.

Thailand has reportedly bombed a logistics centre in the Cambodian town of Poipet, which serves as both a significant casino hub and the largest land crossing between the two nations. The airstrikes occur amidst escalating border clashes that show no signs of abating.

Cambodia's defense ministry indicated that two bombs were dropped by Thai forces, while Thailand claimed that its military targeted a facility used for storing BM-21 rocket systems. The renewed hostilities this month have resulted in at least 21 fatalities in Thailand and 17 in Cambodia, alongside displacing approximately 800,000 individuals.

According to a statement from Cambodia's defense ministry, the strikes occurred around 11:00 a.m. local time. Following the attack, a Thai Air Force spokesman affirmed that the bombardment was aimed at an area known for housing BM-21 rockets, emphasizing that no civilian casualties were reported.

This marks the first time airstrikes have targeted Poipet, which is popular among Thai gamblers due to its casinos. On Tuesday, Thailand announced that approximately 5,000 to 6,000 of its nationals were stranded at the border following its closure by Cambodia, which deemed the move necessary to protect civilians, urging air travel as an alternative escape option.

The longstanding border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations has intensified sharply since July, igniting fierce confrontations and exchanges of artillery fire. Despite a ceasefire negotiated by regional leaders, conditions have once again deteriorated, with both sides accusing each other of breaking the truce.

Recent happenings include Cambodia's allegations that Thai forces bombed areas around Siem Reap province, home to also cultural heritage sites and significant tourist attractions. The ongoing conflict underscores a need for urgent diplomatic resolutions to avert further violence and tragedy.