Mon Dec 08 23:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Renewed clashes between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed border have escalated, with Thailand launching airstrikes in response to alleged Cambodian aggression. The fighting has resulted in casualties on both sides, including civilian deaths, prompting evacuations, and international condemnation. Despite a previous ceasefire brokered by the US and ASEAN, tensions have resurfaced, with each side blaming the other for the renewed violence.

News Article:

Thailand Launches Airstrikes as Border Conflict with Cambodia Re-ignites

Bangkok – Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have boiled over, with Thailand launching airstrikes on its neighbor, Cambodia, on Monday, December 8, 2025. Both nations are trading accusations over who instigated the latest round of fighting along their disputed border, which has already claimed lives and displaced thousands.

The Thai military stated that the airstrikes were launched in self-defense, targeting Cambodian military positions. However, Cambodia accuses Thailand of attacking its troops in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey, including using an F-16 fighter jet, and firing tanks near the ancient Preah Vihear temple. Cambodian officials reported at least four civilian deaths and several injuries from Thai shelling. Thailand confirmed one soldier was killed and 18 wounded.

The renewed conflict has triggered a mass exodus, with approximately 35,000 people evacuated from Thai border areas. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of panic and displacement reminiscent of the heavy fighting that occurred earlier this year.

The international community is urging restraint. The European Union and the United Nations have called on both countries to de-escalate. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged both parties to recommit to the ceasefire brokered earlier this year. The US Embassy in Bangkok has warned Americans to avoid travel near the border.

This flare-up comes despite a previous ceasefire brokered by the United States, China, and Malaysia (as chair of the regional bloc ASEAN). A follow-on agreement touted new trade deals with Thailand and Cambodia after they agreed to prolong their ceasefire. That agreement was co-signed by then-US President Donald Trump. However, Thailand suspended the agreement last month.

Asked about Trump’s intervention and a call by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for restraint and diplomacy, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters in Bangkok that no one should tell his country to stop. “We’re long past that point,” he said. “If you want things to stop, tell the aggressor to stop.”

The conflict stems from a long-standing border dispute rooted in maps drawn during French colonial rule. The situation remains volatile, with no immediate signs of a de-escalation.

Read More