Two Civilians Injured After Thai F-16s Bomb Buildings in Banteay Meanchey
Two civilians sustained minor injuries today after Thai F-16 fighter jets dropped multiple bombs in the cities of Poipet and Serei Sophaon, Banteay Meanchey province. The bombing, which caused significant damage to buildings, marks a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict and has been widely condemned for violating international law.
The attack comes on the twelfth day of fighting between Cambodia and Thailand, with the Thai military’s actions drawing sharp criticism from the Cambodian government and the international community. According to Neth Pheaktra, Cambodia’s Minister of Information, the bombing targeted civilian areas, a clear violation of international law. He called for urgent international intervention to stop further aggression.
“These attacks are serious breaches of international law, and Thailand must be held accountable for its actions,” Pheaktra said.
Bombs Hit Civilian Infrastructure
Reports indicate that three bombs were dropped on a civilian area in Poipet’s Phsar Kandal village. The bombs damaged a warehouse owned by Cambodian tycoon Vong Duong, along with other buildings in the vicinity. At least two more bombs fell in Serei Sophaon city, while additional strikes hit Poipet Municipality, further intensifying the violence.
In a related incident, Thai military shelling damaged a primary school in Thma Puok District on December 17. The shelling caused the walls of several classrooms to collapse, further impacting the local population.
Escalating Conflict and Calls for Ceasefire
As the situation worsens, both the European Union and China have called for an immediate ceasefire. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas urged both sides to prevent the conflict from escalating further. The EU has also offered satellite imagery to monitor compliance with a ceasefire.
Meanwhile, China has stepped up its diplomatic efforts, engaging in “shuttle diplomacy” to mediate between Cambodia and Thailand, aiming to de-escalate the violence and restore peace.
A Growing Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict, which began in early December, has already caused significant harm to civilians in the region. The use of heavy artillery and bombing runs has damaged homes, schools, and vital infrastructure, displacing hundreds of families. As both sides continue to clash, the international community remains focused on restoring peace and ensuring the protection of civilians.
Conclusion
As tensions continue to rise, the call for an immediate ceasefire becomes more urgent. The Thai military’s use of F-16 jets to bomb civilian areas in Cambodia represents a significant escalation in the conflict, with the potential to destabilize the region further. The international community, including the EU and China, is stepping in to mediate, but a swift resolution remains uncertain. The safety and well-being of civilians in Banteay Meanchey depend on immediate action from both governments and international bodies to halt the violence and restore peace.
