Military condemns Cambodia for leading diplomats and journalists into hazardous area without prior warning
In the ongoing dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, the Second Army Region has urged both the public and private sectors to brace for potential cyberattacks, as tensions continue to rise along their shared border.
The recent escalations, which involve deadly military clashes, have been most notably observed near the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple complex. On July 24, 2025, Cambodian forces allegedly opened fire on Thai soldiers and facilities, prompting a response from Thailand with artillery and airstrikes, including F-16 bombings of Cambodian military targets. This confrontation marks the deadliest clash between the two countries in over a decade, following simmering tensions and a prior skirmish on May 28, 2025.
Both countries accuse each other of initiating hostilities, with Thailand reporting civilian casualties (at least 13 deaths) from Cambodian attacks and Cambodia alleging Thai aggression against both military and civilian sites. The ongoing tensions have roots in a longstanding 1907 colonial-era border dispute and nationalist rivalries, exacerbated by political dynamics in both countries.
The conflict has resulted in a significant displacement of civilians. As of late July, approximately 145,390 civilians have been relocated, with 14,963 evacuees in Buri Ram, 51,988 in Si Sa Ket, 22,380 in Ubon Ratchathani, and 56,059 in Surin. The Second Army Region has reported no information about evacuation operations.
The border areas have seen numerous military provocations from Cambodia. Cambodian troops have been observed reinforcing their presence and deploying drones to monitor Thai positions in several locations, including Chong An Ma, Phu Makua, Pha Mo E Dang, Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai Temples. Small arms fire was exchanged during the night in Chong An Ma and Phu Makua.
The Second Army Region has warned of potential Cambodian PHL-03 rocket strikes on Thai provinces and has criticised Cambodia for escorting foreign military attachés and journalists to a sensitive location without prior coordination.
International actors, including the U.S., China, and ASEAN, are invested in preventing a full-scale war. However, experts warn that without strong leadership, external monitoring, and limiting politicization of nationalist sentiment, lasting peace remains uncertain.
As the situation continues to evolve, both governments and international organisations are working to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians caught in the crossfire.
War-and-conflicts have escalated in the region, with the ongoing dispute between Thailand and Cambodia leading to political tensions and general news worthy of global attention. The recent clashes, marked by deadly military operations and cyberspace threats, have underscored the urgent need for international intervention to prevent a full-scale war.
