Airstrike on Samraong: What Happened
Officials in Cambodia report that fighter jets from Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) struck the centre of Samraong city in Oddar Meanchey Province. The attack followed renewed border clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces.
According to the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence, air raids, artillery fire, and armoured-vehicle operations have occurred across multiple provinces — including Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear Province, Banteay Meanchey Province, and Battambang Province.
Cambodia’s defence ministry condemned the strikes as a violation of the recent ceasefire and international agreements. They stressed that Cambodian forces have maintained restraint and not retaliated.
Wider Escalation Along the Border
This latest airstrike comes amid a broader resurgence of fighting between the two countries earlier in December 2025. Thailand claims its operations target Cambodian “heavy-weapon” installations — citing suspected mobilization of rockets and long-range artillery near the border.
In response, the Cambodian side says the use of fighter jets, tanks, artillery, and even chemical shells constitutes unacceptable aggression, undermining peace efforts between the nations.
Impact: Civilian Risk, Displacement, and Regional Concern
Reports indicate that civilian populations near border provinces are affected. Displacement is underway as villagers evacuate zones near firing lines. Schools have been suspended in affected areas.
Regional and international actors have called for de-escalation and renewed diplomacy. The breakdown of the latest ceasefire — reached only six weeks earlier — raises concerns about a protracted conflict with broader humanitarian consequences.
What To Watch Next
- Whether Cambodian forces respond — or continue to exercise restraint — in the coming days.
- International reactions, including possible mediation efforts by regional organizations such as Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
- Humanitarian fallout: displacement numbers, civilian casualties, and the status of essential infrastructure (schools, hospitals).
- Diplomatic developments: if either side calls for talks, or if the conflict further escalates beyond border skirmishes.
