New delhi:The Thai army has confirmed that it carried out air strikes along a disputed border area with Cambodia after fresh clashes were reported in the region. The military said the action was taken in response to what it described as an attack from Cambodian forces that injured two Thai soldiers earlier in the day.
Reports say tensions began to rise again near the long contested frontier, an area that has seen repeated conflict over the years. Local media and officials reported that gunfire and artillery were exchanged before the air strikes took place. The situation has caused fear among residents living near the border, and some families have begun moving away from their homes for safety.
Cambodia has not confirmed the Thai army’s claim and has instead accused Thailand of escalating military action. The Cambodian government has denied firing first and has urged both sides to avoid further violence.
This renewed confrontation comes months after both nations signed a ceasefire agreement at a regional peace meeting earlier this year. That agreement followed a major flare up in July that resulted in casualties, property damage and the evacuation of many border villages.
Humanitarian groups and regional leaders have expressed concern that the latest fighting could undo diplomatic progress made in recent months. They are urging both countries to return to dialogue and prevent the situation from growing into a larger conflict.
For now, both Thailand and Cambodia say they are monitoring the situation closely. There have been no reports of civilian deaths, but several people have reportedly been injured in the latest exchange.
Efforts are expected to continue in the coming days to reduce military tensions and protect communities living near the border.