Thailand extends border curfews as Cambodia continues cross-border attacks

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated over the weekend as Cambodian forces reportedly launched renewed attacks along the Thai border, defying an agreed ceasefire proposal.

According to the Thai Ministry of Defence, Cambodia violated the ceasefire from late Saturday night through early Sunday, targeting provinces in eastern and northeastern Thailand with drone incursions and rocket fire.

Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, spokesman for the Ministry, stated that Thailand retaliated in line with international rules of engagement.

He said drone incursions were detected in Trat province between 10pm on 14 December and 1am on 15 December, followed by rocket and shell attacks in Si Sa Ket at around 4.15am. An hour later, at 5.15am, Cambodia resumed attacks across multiple sectors along the eastern and northeastern border.

RAdm Surasant disputed Cambodian claims of compliance with a ceasefire agreement proposed by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“Cambodia has not ceased fire as it claimed,” he stated.

In response, Thailand extended curfews in the affected areas. The Royal Thai Navy announced a 7pm–5am curfew in four districts of Trat province: Khlong Yai, Bo Rai, Khao Saming and Muang. This follows an earlier curfew imposed in Sa Kaeo province.

Deputy army spokesman Colonel Richa Suksuvanont confirmed that Thai forces continue to control critical border positions. These include Chong An Ma (Hill 677) in Ubon Ratchathani, Sam Tae in Si Sa Ket, strategic passes in Surin, and Ban Nong Ya Kaew in Sa Kaeo.

He highlighted the military’s success in securing the Prasat Khana temple ruins in Surin, where Cambodian troops had previously dug defensive trenches. This action was characterised as a breach of international norms.

Col Richa reported significant Cambodian losses, including at least 221 soldiers and substantial equipment. The listed losses comprised 51 military bases, one BM-21 multiple rocket launcher, 10 tanks, nine armoured vehicles, four anti-aircraft systems, seven mortars, five anti-drone facilities, 68 drones, and three communications towers.

He said the Thai army remains resolute in its efforts to reclaim any encroached territories and eliminate military threats to both Thai forces and civilians.

“The army is still determined to retrieve previously encroached border areas and disable the military capabilities of Cambodia,” Col Richa said. “This refers to military personnel, weapons, military bases and facilities.”

In addition to ground operations, Thai naval and air units have also engaged in ongoing efforts to push back Cambodian forces. Captain Nara Khunthothom, assistant spokesman for the Royal Thai Navy, said that combined forces had recaptured the Ban Chamrak area in Trat, which had been illegally occupied by Cambodia.

He reported that clashes are continuing as Cambodian troops resist Thai advances. The curfews, he explained, were enacted to shield local communities from potential harm.

Despite ASEAN's efforts to mediate the conflict, the situation remains unstable. Cambodia’s decision to continue its attacks following its agreement to a ceasefire has further strained diplomatic channels, complicating regional efforts to de-escalate the confrontation.

The Ministry of Defence has not indicated whether additional military deployments or diplomatic countermeasures are under consideration. However, Thailand has reiterated its intention to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its population along the border.