### Escalating Conflict: Thai Airstrikes and Shelling in Cambodia Amid ASEAN Peace Talks The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified dramatically, with Thai military operations continuing for the 16th consecutive day as of December 22, 2025. The situation has escalated to include airstrikes and artillery shelling targeting Cambodian territory, particularly in Military Region 5. This violence comes despite diplomatic efforts by ASEAN foreign ministers to negotiate peace and de-escalate tensions between the two nations [https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/12/22/thai-airstrikes-shelling-rock-cambodia-as-asean-foreign-ministers-meet-to-push-for-peace]. ### Structure of the Current Situation 1. **Military Actions**: - Thai forces have conducted airstrikes using F-16 fighter jets, targeting civilian areas in provinces such as Siem Reap and Preah Vihear [https://www.cambodgemag.com/en/post/thailand-deploys-f-16-fighter-jets-deep-into-cambodia-targeting-civilian-areas]. - The conflict has seen the use of heavy artillery, tanks, and drones, leading to significant casualties on both sides [https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3337238/cambodia-thai-border-clashes-displace-half-million-ahead-peace-talks]. 2. **Humanitarian Crisis**: - Over **500,000 Cambodians** have been displaced due to the ongoing violence, with many fleeing their homes to escape the bombardments [https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/thai-border-clashes-displace-over-half-a-million-in-cambodia-4996515.html]. - The Interior Ministry of Cambodia has reported severe hardships faced by evacuees, including women and children [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/cambodia-thailand-displacements-border-clashes-5654221]. 3. **Diplomatic Efforts**: - ASEAN foreign ministers convened to discuss the escalating conflict and seek a peaceful resolution, urging both nations to declare a ceasefire [https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3337220/thailand-strikes-cambodia-casino-bridge-asean-seeks-de-escalate-crisis]. - Despite these efforts, the violence has continued unabated, with both sides accusing each other of violating ceasefire agreements [https://www.cambodgemag.com/en/post/border-conflict-ongoing-tensions-economic-worries-and-a-deepening-humanitarian-crisis]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Displacement Figures**: - **518,611** Cambodians displaced as reported by the Interior Ministry [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/cambodia-thailand-displacements-border-clashes-5654221]. - **400,000** people displaced in Thailand due to the conflict [https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/over-500000-displaced-in-cambodia-by-thai-border-clashes-interior-ministry]. - **Casualties**: - At least **22 deaths** reported in Thailand and **19 in Cambodia** due to the renewed fighting [https://www.firstpost.com/world/millions-displaced-in-cambodia-amid-escalating-border-clashes-13961636.html]. ### Conclusion: A Call for Urgent Action The situation at the Thailand-Cambodia border is dire, with **ongoing military actions** leading to a significant humanitarian crisis. The displacement of over **500,000 individuals** highlights the urgent need for a ceasefire and effective diplomatic intervention. 1. **Immediate military de-escalation is crucial** to prevent further loss of life and suffering. 2. **ASEAN's role** in mediating peace talks must be strengthened to ensure a lasting resolution to the conflict. 3. **Humanitarian aid** is urgently needed to support the displaced populations and address their immediate needs. The international community must act swiftly to facilitate dialogue and restore peace in this volatile region [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/over-500-000-displaced-in-cambodia-by-thai-border-clashes-interior-ministry-101766299031667.html].