Thai military forces advanced on Cambodia’s Banteay Meanchey Province on Friday morning following air strikes as negotiations for a cease-fire continue. Fighting between the two nations resumed earlier in December amid long-standing border disputes.
Thai Military Advances on Cambodian Province
Thai tanks, armored vehicles and infantry moved into Chouk Chey Village in the O’Chrov District of Banteay Meanchey Province, located in northwestern Cambodia along the Thai border. Thai F-16 fighter jets dropped approximately 40 bombs onto the area between 6:08 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. local time before the ground forces advanced.
Cambodian Defense Ministry spokeswoman Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata stated the air strikes were carried out “in the most ruthless and inhumane manner,” destroying public infrastructure, civilian homes and private property. Socheata described the attacks as “indiscriminate” and a “serious violation of international humanitarian law.”
“We will protect our dignity with courage and unwavering resolve, at any cost, and without succumbing to coercion or intimidation in any form,” Socheata said.
Thai Air Force officials denied targeting civilians and their homes, claiming they struck a “fortified military position” after civilians had evacuated the area, according to the BBC.
Friday’s military actions were aimed at gaining Thai control of the village of Nong Chan.
Cambodian and Thai negotiators are continuing cease-fire discussions at a border checkpoint for a third day and are scheduled to meet again on Saturday. Fighting resumed earlier this month despite a cease-fire agreement reached in July.
At least 41 people have died and approximately one million have been displaced since fighting resumed along the 500-mile border. Hostilities began in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a clash, and escalated when Cambodian forces fired rockets into Thailand on July 24.
Chinese and U.S. officials have both attempted to mediate a lasting peace between the two nations.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
