Thailand Closes Cambodia Border Amid Deadly Armed Clashes

Violent clashes have erupted between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed border near the Emerald Triangle, a region where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge and which contains several ancient temples. Both countries accuse each other of initiating hostilities, with Cambodia alleging unprovoked Thai military aggression and Thailand accusing Cambodia of firing into civilian areas, including a hospital. The Thai military deployed F-16 fighter jets to strike Cambodian military targets, while Cambodia responded with rocket attacks and artillery fire, causing civilian casualties on the Thai side. Thailand has closed all border checkpoints and its land border with Cambodia, while Cambodia has downgraded diplomatic ties and recalled its embassy staff from Bangkok. The conflict follows escalating tensions in recent months, including landmine explosions and previous armed clashes along the border. Both governments have warned of further military responses, with Cambodia's defense ministry condemning Thailand's actions as violations of international law and ASEAN norms, emphasizing readiness to defend sovereignty at all costs.