Soldiers lose lives in border skirmishes, elevating military fatalities to 14
The ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have resulted in a tragic loss of 14 military lives since July 24, 2025. This escalation of a long-standing territorial dispute has been marked by tit-for-tat military exchanges, including artillery, rockets, and air strikes.
The recent flare-up in violence began on July 23, when a Thai patrol hit a landmine, an incident that Thailand accused Cambodia of planting. This was followed by exchanges of gunfire, artillery, and aerial attacks, with civilian areas being hit on both sides.
The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has been actively engaged in these clashes, with the recent loss of three soldiers on July 27. The deceased soldiers were identified as Sgt Maj 1st Class Thirayuth Sijuijai, Sgt Maj 1st Class Apirom Songput, and Pvt Thirayuth Krachangthong.
The casualties in these clashes have risen significantly, with at least 38 people killed, including soldiers and civilians from both sides, and more than 300,000 civilians displaced due to evacuations and martial law declared in Thai border districts.
The current situation remains tense, with ongoing fighting over several days despite calls for an immediate ceasefire by Cambodia and ASEAN, and efforts by the United Nations Security Council and diplomatic talks in Kuala Lumpur. Both sides eventually declared an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” on July 28, though the fighting persisted for some time. Thailand has closed all border crossings and evacuated civilians while diplomatic relations have been downgraded, with ambassadors recalled amid increased hostilities.
The RTA has expressed gratitude towards the soldiers who died in the line of duty, defending the country's sovereignty, and assured that the families of the deceased soldiers will receive all entitled rights and welfare in honor of their sacrifice for the nation.
[1] BBC News [2] Al Jazeera [3] Reuters [4] CNN
- The escalating border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia are dominating the headlines in general news outlets, with coverage in business, politics, crime-and-justice, and sports sections.
- The United Nations Security Council is monitoring the ongoing war-and-conflicts between the two nations, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to appease innocent civilians, who have become victims of accidents arising from the violence.
- As the sports calendar continues, threats of border disputes may cast a shadow over the upcoming Southeast Asian Games, scheduled to take place between Thailand and Cambodia, leaving spectators and international organizations on edge.
