Escalation at the Thai-Cambodian Border: Bombings Near Poipet

Fri Dec 19 2025 19:15:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Tensions soar as Thailand conducts airstrikes targeting a logistics center near the Poipet border in Cambodia, amidst ongoing clashes that have resulted in significant casualties.

In a shocking development, Thailand has reportedly bombed a 'logistics center' near the border town of Poipet, escalating tensions between the two nations. This action comes amid ongoing clashes that have resulted in the deaths of at least 38 people and the displacement of around 800,000 across both countries. Despite a previously brokered ceasefire, the violence has reignited, leading to concerns over safety and civilian welfare.

In a significant military escalation, Thailand confirmed it has bombed a 'logistics center' near Cambodia's Poipet, a well-known casino hub and crucial land crossing point. The airstrikes, part of renewed hostilities between the two countries, have drawn sharp condemnation and raised fears for the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire.

According to reports from both nations, the bombing occurred amidst ongoing border clashes that have led to the deaths of at least 21 individuals in Thailand and 17 in Cambodia, forcing an estimated 800,000 people to flee their homes. The Cambodian defense ministry noted that Thai forces dropped two bombs early Thursday morning, while Thai military officials stated the attack targeted a facility believed to be storing BM-21 rocket systems, asserting that no civilians were harmed.

This incident marks one of the first airstrikes in the Poipet region, known for hosting casinos that attract numerous gamblers from Thailand. Previously, on Tuesday, officials indicated that between 5,000 and 6,000 Thai nationals were stranded in Poipet due to Cambodia's closure of land border crossings, a precaution deemed necessary to protect civilians.

The tensions have been escalating since July, when a Cambodian rocket strike was met with airstrikes from Thailand, initiating deadly confrontations between soldiers and civilians. Diplomatic efforts, including a ceasefire brokered by Malaysian leadership and U.S. involvement, have failed to bring lasting peace.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Cambodia's government has accused Thai forces of conducting bombings in its Siem Reap province, which is home to the renowned Angkor temples, a significant tourist attraction.

The international community watches closely as the situation continues to develop, weighing the implications of this conflict on regional stability and civilian safety. As hostilities continue with no sign of resolution, calls for diplomatic dialogue grow louder.