Thailand Deploys F-16 Fighter Jet Against Cambodia

Thailand launched an F-16 airstrike over disputed border areas with Cambodia on Thursday morning, targeting Cambodian military bases. The clash was focused on the near historic Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples which has become a major concern for both the nations and nations around it. Both sides exchanged gunfire, rockets, and airstrikes, leaving 12 people dead and over 30 injured.

As violence spreads, Thailand has evacuated 40,000 civilians from 86 villages, while Cambodia has moved 5,000 residents from nearby areas. By mid-morning, clashes erupted at six locations, and one of the F-16s destroyed the designated target. “All Thai F-16s have returned home safely and intact, after a rapid deployment to drop bombs on Cambodian battalions” confirmed the army on a social media post.

Historical background of the conflict

The Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Ta Muen Thom Temple, both situated right on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. Preah Vihear Temple sits on the top of a cliff in Dangrek Mountains. In 1962, International Court of Justice ruled that the Preah Vihear temple belonged to the Cambodia but Thailand disagreed and did not accept the border demarcation entirely.

Several Soldiers and civilians died due to the tension escalated between two countries from 2008-2011 as they were both involved in sending their troops to the disputed area that unfortunately led to military clashes.

Thailand’s Version: Cambodian Forces Initiated the Attack

According to Thailand, Cambodian forces initiated the conflict around 7:30 a.m. when they flew a drone over the border and sent six armed soldiers into Thai territory. Cambodian troops then opened fire on Thai soldiers stationed near the disputed area. In retaliation, Thailand launched F-16 fighter jets and struck Cambodian military bases.

Cambodia’s Version: Thailand Breached Agreements and Attacked First

Cambodia claims the incident began earlier at around 6:30 a.m., when Thai troops trespassed near a temple and violated existing agreements. In response, Cambodian forces deployed drones. As a result, both governments accuse each other of provoking and starting the conflict.

Current state of affair

Tensions have spilled over into diplomatic channels. Thailand has withdrawn its ambassador from Phnom Penh and announced the closure of all border crossings. Cambodia retaliated by expelling Thai diplomats and banning Thai imports, including electricity and media content.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, urging international intervention. Meanwhile, Thai leadership has stated that no negotiations will take place until hostilities cease.