A fragile ceasefire, reportedly brokered by US President Donald Trump, is facing severe challenges as Cambodia accuses Thailand of launching fresh airstrikes. The Cambodian Ministry of Defence alleged that Thai F-16 fighter jets targeted bunkers in the Trat border region and other areas on Saturday, resulting in the reported deaths of over 165 Cambodian soldiers. This accusation surfaced shortly after President Trump announced an agreement between Thai and Cambodian leaders to renew a truce following days of intense border clashes.
President Trump shared the news of the impending ceasefire via Truth Social, stating, “They have agreed to CEASE all shooting effective this evening, and go back to the original Peace Accord made with me, and them, with the help of the Great Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim.” This announcement followed separate telephone conversations Trump had with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
The initial truce, mediated by Malaysia in July, was solidified with significant pressure from Donald Trump, who had previously threatened trade repercussions for non-compliance. While this agreement was expanded and formally recognized at a regional summit in Malaysia in October, sustained tensions have continued. Both nations have engaged in heightened rhetoric and intermittent skirmishes along their shared border.
Thailand has confirmed airstrikes targeting what it describes as military objectives, employing fighter jets. In response, Cambodia has deployed BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, systems capable of striking targets up to 40 kilometers distant. The long-standing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia traces its roots back to a dispute over the ownership of the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple. Although the International Court of Justice awarded the site to Cambodia in 1962, Thailand continues to assert its claims, fueling ongoing tensions.