Escalating Border Clashes: Thai F-16 Jets Strike Cambodian Targets

A Thai F-16 fighter jet launched an attack on Cambodian targets, escalating tensions from a border dispute into violent clashes that have led to civilian casualties. Thailand dispatched six F-16 jets for deployment, and one aircraft successfully struck a military target in Cambodia, according to the Thai army.

Diplomatic relations have further soured as both nations accuse each other of initiating the conflict. Thailand has closed its border with Cambodia, expelled its ambassador, and accused Cambodian troops of firing artillery at civilian and military sites. Meanwhile, Cambodia condemned Thailand's military aggression and demanded a withdrawal.

Years of sovereignty disputes over undemarcated border points have resulted in numerous skirmishes. This recent violence follows heightened tensions after the death of a Cambodian soldier earlier in the year. Thailand maintains that recent landmines have been newly placed, while Cambodia attributes these to remnants from its civil war.

(With inputs from agencies.)