Thailand has deployed fighter jets along its disputed border with Cambodia following deadly clashes that left one soldier dead and four injured, marking the most significant military escalation between the Southeast Asian neighbors in over a decade. The Royal Thai Air Force confirmed air operations targeting Cambodian military infrastructure on Monday, December 8, 2025, after what it called a 'direct threat to national security.'
According to Thai Army Spokesperson Winthai Suvaree, Cambodian forces initiated attacks using 'supporting fire weapons' near the Chong Bok area early Monday. The engagement followed an earlier clash at Chong An Ma, where Thai troops responded to small firearms and indirect weapons fire under established rules of engagement.
Cambodian Defense Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata countered these claims, stating Thai forces launched unprovoked attacks near Preah Vihear province's An Ses area and historic temple sites. 'Cambodia has refrained from retaliation despite repeated provocations,' Socheata emphasized, adding that Phnom Penh has alerted ASEAN observers and plans to request an international investigation.
The conflicting narratives emerge as both nations deploy heavy military assets along the border region, which has seen periodic tensions since a 2011 confrontation over the Preah Vihear temple complex. Regional analysts note the current escalation coincides with increased infrastructure development projects in contested border zones.
