At least two civilians have been killed so far, prompting the evacuation of around 40,000 Thai residents from villages in Surin province as per media reports.

Late on Wednesday, Thailand recalled its ambassador and expelled Cambodia’s envoy amid rising tensions, triggered by Thai soldiers suffering injuries—one losing a limb—to landmine blasts allegedly planted in the disputed region.

The first exchanges of fire erupted early Thursday near the historic Ta Moan Thom temple, with artillery shells reportedly hitting homes.

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Thailand responded by bombing what it described as Cambodian military positions. In turn, Cambodia denounced the strikes as “reckless and brutal aggression” and accused Thailand of violating its sovereignty.

At least two civilian deaths confirmed. Over 40,000 villagers displaced to shelters in Surin. Intense artillery exchanges and the use of air power have instilled widespread fear and disruption among border communities.

The disputed 817 km border has fueled cycles of tension for over a century, with major flare-ups in 2008 and 2011 around Preah Vihear. A deadly skirmish in May, which killed a Cambodian soldier, had already escalated the diplomatic crisis.

Thailand confirms use of an F‑16 aircraft against Cambodian military targets; border crossings were shut, and preparations for further defense actions are undrway.

Moreover, Thailand accuses Cambodia of deploying heavy artillery, targeting civilian infrastructure such as a hospital. Acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai emphasized adherence to international law, calling the situation “delicate”.

Cambodia condemns airstrikes, labeling them unprovoked aggression, and demands Thai withdrawal. Combodia claims Thai soldiers moved into Cambodian territory first; uses of landmines and bombings have been attributed to Thailand.

Both countries have downgraded diplomatic ties, expelling each other’s ambassadors. A long-running diplomatic dispute reignited in May, leading to explosive clashes this week.

With peace efforts stalled and a political scandal unfolding in Thailand following a controversial call between the Thai premier and Cambodia’s ex-PM Hun Sen, the region remains on edge

The conflict threatens regional stability in Southeast Asia and heightens fears of a broader military confrontation. Civilians are bearing the brunt—displaced families, damaged infrastructure, and lingering insecurity.