Tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border escalated sharply on Monday after the Thai military confirmed that it had carried out air strikes on Cambodian positions in a disputed frontier zone. The Thai Army stated that the action followed what it described as “unprovoked Cambodian fire,” including small-arms and mortar rounds, that resulted in the death of a Thai soldier and injuries to several others. Cambodia, however, rejected the allegation, maintaining that its forces had not engaged Thai troops and accusing Bangkok of initiating hostilities.
The incident marks the most serious breakdown of the security situation since the July 2025 clashes, which displaced thousands and exposed the fragility of the internationally backed Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord. The ceasefire, endorsed prominently by U.S. President Donald Trump, had sought to stabilise the long-contested frontier, where overlapping territorial claims and historical grievances have periodically triggered conflict.
Monday’s hostilities underline the deep mistrust that continues to hinder the accord’s implementation. Thailand had already suspended key provisions last month after a landmine blast injured its troops, a charge Cambodia also denied. With both sides now mobilising reinforcements and civilian evacuations reported in several border districts, fears of renewed prolonged conflict are rising. Regional actors, including ASEAN and the United States, are expected to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and to revive the fragile peace framework.
