On March 15, 2024, Thailand conducted air strikes in a disputed border region with Cambodia, escalating tensions as both nations engaged in ceasefire negotiations. The Thai Air Force confirmed that it targeted a “fortified military position” in Cambodia’s north-western Banteay Meanchey province, claiming the area was devoid of civilians at the time. In response, Cambodia’s Defence Ministry accused Thailand of executing “indiscriminate attacks” against civilian homes, resulting in injuries to several individuals.
This latest round of violence marks a significant deterioration in relations between the two countries, which had previously entered a fragile ceasefire in July 2023. This ceasefire followed five days of intense clashes that resulted in at least 41 casualties and displaced nearly one million people. Since the resumption of hostilities earlier this month, fighting has spread across almost every province along the approximately 800-kilometer border.
Cambodia’s Defence Ministry reported that Thai F-16 fighter jets dropped up to 40 bombs on Friday, intensifying fears of further escalation. Thailand, however, described its military actions as “efficient and successful,” aimed at regaining control over the contested Nong Chan village.
Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s Prime Minister, expressed hope for a resolution during the ongoing talks, stating that a ceasefire agreement could be on the horizon if both nations agree to each other’s conditions. He remarked, “I hope this time will be the last one we’d have to sign, so that peace can occur in the area,” allowing displaced individuals to return home.
The negotiations, which entered their third day on March 15, 2024, are set to include defence ministers from both countries on Saturday, aiming to solidify a path forward amidst ongoing hostilities. The involvement of international mediators, including representatives from the US and China, indicates the broader implications of the conflict and the urgency for resolution.
The roots of the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia extend over a century, with both countries experiencing sporadic clashes resulting in losses on both sides. Tensions escalated sharply in May 2023 when a Cambodian soldier lost his life during a confrontation. Subsequently, a Cambodian rocket barrage into Thailand on July 24, 2023, led to retaliatory air strikes and set off a series of violent encounters that have left dozens dead.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a sustainable resolution that can bring lasting peace to the border region. The humanitarian impact of the conflict remains severe, with countless civilians caught in the crossfire and a pressing need for both countries to find common ground.
