Cambodian authorities reported a sharp escalation in fighting along the Cambodia Thailand border, with Thai forces carrying out heavy shelling and renewed air operations that struck multiple Cambodian villages on Friday.
According to official field updates from local military and district authorities, Thai artillery units fired an estimated 360 shells into Cambodian territory over the course of the day. Of these, approximately 250 shells landed in and around Sok Sang Village in Ou Beichoan Commune, O Chrov District, between 7:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
The shelling damaged homes, public areas and farmland, and prompted emergency evacuation efforts. Several families were relocated to safer areas as local authorities worked with community leaders to move vulnerable residents, including elderly people, women and children.
In a separate incident reported on the same day, Thai F 16 fighter aircraft carried out bombing operations in Cambodian territory. Earlier updates this week indicated that some of these strikes had taken place up to 80 kilometers inside the Cambodian border zone, affecting districts far beyond the immediate frontline.
Ground movements were also reported near Chouk Chey Village, where armored vehicles and troop carriers were observed in areas close to residential communities. Local officials stated that the presence of military equipment created heightened fear among villagers already displaced by earlier clashes.
The latest wave of hostilities follows the breakdown of a fragile ceasefire that had been in place after peace discussions earlier in the year. Fighting has intensified throughout December, with multiple recorded instances of air operations, artillery exchanges and cross-border movements.
Preliminary estimates from humanitarian teams indicate that thousands of civilians across several northwestern provinces have been displaced since the start of the renewed conflict. Temporary shelters have been established in schools, pagodas and community centers, while authorities continue to monitor security and provide basic assistance.
Several border schools have suspended classes due to safety risks, and agricultural activity in affected districts has been severely disrupted. Local officials report that many farmers have been unable to access their fields during peak season, raising concerns about household income and food security.
Military and diplomatic representatives from both countries have continued communication through technical channels. Cambodian officials reiterated calls for restraint, protection of civilians and a return to dialogue aimed at restoring stability along the border.
The situation remains tense, with security forces maintaining monitoring operations and humanitarian teams continuing to assess damage and displacement across the impacted areas.
