Thai Forces Launch Drone Strikes, Toxic Gas, and Shelling in Military Region 5, Reports Cambodian Defence Ministry

In a significant and alarming escalation along the Cambodian-Thai border, the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence has confirmed a series of attacks by Thai forces between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. today, involving the use of drone strikes, toxic gas, and heavy shelling in several villages within Military Region 5. These actions have raised concerns over the intensifying border conflict and the potential breach of international laws.

Escalation Begins: Thai Troops Advance with Tanks

According to the Ministry’s timeline, the escalation began at 8:38 a.m., when Thai infantry units, supported by tanks, advanced into the Prey Chan village area, located in the northern part of Military Region 5, which borders Thailand. This was followed by multiple reconnaissance drone flights over the region at 9:10 a.m., 10:34 a.m., and again at 12:45 p.m.

The Ministry of Defence reported that these reconnaissance missions were soon followed by more aggressive military actions, which included the deployment of bomb-equipped drones. At 10:26 a.m. and again at 11:58 a.m., these drones targeted the O’Phluok Damrei area, striking civilian infrastructure and military positions.

Use of Toxic Gas: A Dangerous Escalation

In one of the most troubling developments, the Defence Ministry reported that Thai forces deployed toxic gas in two separate incidents. The first attack occurred at 11:37 a.m. in Prey Chan village, followed by a second release of toxic gas at 12:13 p.m., which affected both Prey Chan and the nearby Chouk Chey village.

The use of toxic gas has raised alarm among human rights organizations, as such actions violate international conventions, including the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The Cambodian government has condemned the use of chemical weapons, calling it a severe breach of international law and a direct threat to the lives of innocent civilians in the region.

Heavy Shelling and Intensified Clashes

Shelling resumed shortly before 1 p.m., with Thai artillery forces firing into the Prey Chan area at 12:53 p.m., causing further damage to civilian properties and escalating the violence. The Ministry reports that the situation is becoming increasingly dire, with both sides reinforcing their positions and clashes intensifying as the day progresses.

These military actions come on the heels of several smaller skirmishes between Cambodian and Thai forces in recent months, but the scale and coordination of today’s assault have raised concerns of a more deliberate and sustained campaign.

Cambodia’s Response and International Reactions

The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence has condemned the attacks, labeling them a dangerous escalation and a clear violation of international law. The ministry further stated that Cambodia continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the international community to take a firm stance against such aggressive actions.

Cambodia’s government has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and is working to secure assistance from international organizations, including the United Nations, to address the escalating conflict and prevent further loss of life. In addition, humanitarian organizations are preparing to assist those affected by the violence, particularly the civilians caught in the crossfire.

The use of chemical weapons, in particular, has prompted an outcry from international human rights groups, who have called on both the Thai and Cambodian governments to adhere to international laws prohibiting the use of such weapons. The United Nations and other global organizations have yet to issue an official statement, but diplomatic channels are reportedly being activated in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.

A Region on Edge

This latest escalation highlights the ongoing volatility in the region, where tensions between Cambodia and Thailand over border security, resource disputes, and military presence have been simmering for years. While both countries have historically sought to maintain diplomatic ties, incidents like these can quickly spiral into broader regional instability.

As the situation continues to develop, both the Cambodian government and the international community will need to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed and to uphold the principles of international law.