Did the Thai Army Bomb a Bridge Within Cambodian Borders?
Synopsis
Tensions escalate in the Cambodia-Thailand conflict as Cambodia accuses the Thai military of bombing a bridge. The situation has led to significant civilian casualties and mass displacement, raising concerns over regional stability. Will diplomatic efforts be enough to restore peace?
Key Takeaways
Conflict escalated between Cambodia and Thailand Thai military reportedly bombed a bridge Significant civilian casualties reported Over 510,000 people displaced Calls for ceasefire from the Thai government
Phnom Penh, Dec 20 (NationPress) On Saturday, Cambodia reported that the Thai military employed an F-16 fighter jet to strike a concrete bridge located within Cambodian territory. "At 10:58 p.m. on December 19, the Thai military utilized an F-16 fighter jet to release two bombs, resulting in the destruction of the civilian O' Jik Bridge situated in the border area between Chong Kal district of Oddar Meanchey province and Srei Snam district of Siem Reap province," stated Cambodian Defence Ministry's Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata during a press briefing.
She further indicated that the Thai military forces have consistently fired artillery shells at various locations in Cambodia as of Saturday morning.
As per the latest statistics from Cambodia's Ministry of Interior, the conflict has claimed the lives of 18 Cambodian civilians and left 79 others injured to date. Additionally, over 510,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes seeking safety, according to Xinhua news agency.
On Wednesday, Cambodia disclosed that the Thai military has persisted with airstrikes and artillery bombardments into Cambodian territory, causing the civilian death toll to rise to 17.
Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata noted that since early Wednesday, Thai forces have employed tank-mounted machine guns, bombing drones, artillery, and an F-16 fighter jet in attacks across Cambodia's Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, and Pursat provinces.
Socheata reported that the total number of Cambodian civilian casualties from the conflict has reached 17, with 77 injured.
The conflict has also forced over 130,000 Cambodian families, totaling around 438,000 individuals, to flee their homes for safety, based on official statistics.
The clashes at the Cambodia-Thailand border have escalated since December 7, with both nations blaming each other for initiating hostilities.
Earlier on Tuesday, Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reaffirmed its position on the border situation, stating that Cambodia must be the first to declare a ceasefire, ensuring that the ceasefire is both genuine and sustainable while also cooperating diligently with mine clearance.
Maratee Nalita Andamo, deputy spokesperson for the MFA, emphasized at a press conference that Thailand's stance has remained consistent and has been publicly reiterated by the prime minister, foreign minister, and MFA spokesperson on multiple occasions.
She also disclosed that Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow will participate in the ASEAN foreign ministers' special meeting regarding the Thailand-Cambodia situation on December 22, while coordination for participation from other ASEAN member states is ongoing.
According to data shared at the press conference, this current round of conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has resulted in the deaths of 17 Thai soldiers and 16 Thai civilians, with over 260,000 people displaced as of Tuesday morning.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain unbiased and present the facts surrounding this conflict. Both Cambodia and Thailand have deep historical ties and grievances, and it is essential to approach this situation with a focus on diplomacy and humanitarian concerns, prioritizing the safety of civilians affected by the ongoing violence.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiated the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand?
The recent conflict has escalated since December 7, with both nations accusing each other of initiating hostilities.
How many civilians have been affected by the conflict?
As of the latest reports, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of 18 Cambodian civilians and has displaced over 510,000 individuals.
What actions have been taken by the Thai military?
The Thai military has been reported to use fighter jets, artillery, and machine guns in attacks within Cambodian territory.
What is the international community's response?
Thailand has called for Cambodia to declare a ceasefire first, while both nations are engaged in discussions regarding the situation.
What are the humanitarian concerns in the region?
The conflict has led to significant civilian casualties and forced many families to flee their homes, raising serious humanitarian concerns.
