Sun Dec 14 03:32:24 UTC 2025: Summary:

Fighting has escalated between Thailand and Cambodia over a long-standing border dispute. Thailand has launched a military operation to reclaim what it considers its territory in Trat province, with heavy clashes reported. Cambodia has closed all border crossings. Despite international mediation efforts, including claims of a ceasefire brokered by President Trump, fighting continues. The conflict has resulted in casualties and displacement on both sides.

News Article:

Thailand Launches Military Offensive, Claims Reclaiming Territory from Cambodia

Trat Province, Thailand – The Royal Thai Navy has announced the launch of a military operation to “reclaim sovereign territory” in the coastal province of Trat, escalating the ongoing conflict with Cambodia. A spokesman for the Navy, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, told Matichon Online that the operation began early Sunday with heavy clashes, asserting it was conducted in self-defense and to preserve national sovereignty.

According to Thai military sources, the operation successfully “controlled and reclaimed the area,” expelling opposing forces and raising the Thai flag. The Thai military reports that the army, Navy, and Air Force are continuing operations along the border.

The conflict stems from a long-running dispute over the demarcation of the shared 800km border, a vestige of colonial-era mapping. Fighting has intensified in recent days, leading Cambodia to close all border crossings with Thailand.

This escalation comes despite previous attempts at mediation, including claims by US President Donald Trump of a new ceasefire agreement. However, Thai officials have disputed Trump’s assertions, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pledging to continue fighting on the disputed border.

Casualties from the latest clashes remain unreported. The Cambodian military has yet to issue a statement, but social media reports suggest shelling in the Thmar Da area of Pursat province, near where the Thai military claims to have conducted its operation.

The situation remains tense, raising concerns about regional stability and the potential for further escalation despite international efforts to secure peace.

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