Cambodian military leader allied with Hun Sen meets violent end in skirmish at Thai frontier
In a dramatic turn of events on the Thai-Cambodian border, two Royal Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets launched a strategic night mission on July 28, 2025. The target was the Ta Kwai temple area, where Cambodian military positions were located near the border.
The mission's objectives were clear: to disrupt Cambodian reinforcement routes and neutralize artillery positions that were providing cover fire to Cambodian forces. The operation, reported as a success, aimed to weaken the Cambodian military's support system in the midst of ongoing border clashes.
The intensification of conflict was palpable, as the mission increased military pressure on Cambodian forces around Ta Kwai. Following the air strike, Thai troops moved to occupy additional areas surrounding the temple, though control of the temple itself was not immediately secured.
The heightened tensions along the border were further exacerbated by the death of Gen Srey Duk, a high-ranking and influential Cambodian general close to former Prime Minister Hun Sen. Gen Srey Duk, deputy commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Army and commander of the 3rd Support Division, was killed during a clash along the border at an unspecified location and time.
Prior to these events, efforts to de-escalate tensions, including negotiations and a ceasefire, had failed. The negotiations were aimed at resolving a border intrusion dispute at Chong Bok. Gen Srey Duk served as Cambodia's lead representative in these talks with Maj Gen Somphop Paravech from Thailand.
Despite the escalation, it is important to note that the article does not mention any recent developments in Thai-Pakistan relations beyond the reference to Pakistan's Independence Day. Furthermore, the article does not provide details about the cause of death or the nature of the clash that led to Gen Srey Duk's demise.
The success of the Thai F-16 night mission and the subsequent advancement of Thai troops around the Ta Kwai temple area have raised questions about the future of the border situation. As diplomatic efforts continue, both countries remain vigilant and prepared for any further developments.
- The ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have spilled over into various aspects of both nations, with the latest development being the Thai government's decision to launch a strategic air strike on Cambodian military positions, a move that could significantly impact political relations and general news narratives.
- The escalation of war-and-conflicts along the Thai-Cambodian border has disrupted regular business operations and negotiations aimed at de-escalation, with the recent air strike on Ta Kwai temple area and the death of high-ranking Cambodian General Gen Srey Duk intensifying the tension.
