### Escalating Tensions: Cambodia Accuses Thailand of Military Aggression The ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand has intensified dramatically, with Cambodia accusing Thailand of using cluster bombs and airstrikes against its territory. This escalation comes amid a backdrop of increasing violence and humanitarian crises, as both nations engage in military operations that have resulted in civilian casualties and mass displacement. - On December 24, Cambodia reported that the Thai military deployed F-16 jets to drop bombs in Banteay Meanchey province, further aggravating the already volatile situation [https://news.az/news/cambodia-accuses-thailand-of-new-f-16-airstrikes]. - The Cambodian Ministry of Defence has claimed that these airstrikes targeted civilian areas, contradicting Thailand's assertion that their operations are aimed solely at military objectives [https://indian.community/news/cambodia-accuses-thai-military-of-using-cluster-bombs-in-border-conflict]. - The conflict has led to significant civilian casualties, with reports indicating that the death toll has risen to 21, and over 500,000 people have been displaced due to the violence [https://dailyworld.in/international/thai-military-continues-to-strike-multiple-targets-in-cambodian-territory-defence-ministry-655287.html, https://news.az/news/thai-border-clashes-force-500-000-to-flee-in-cambodia]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation 1. **Military Actions**: - Thailand has conducted multiple airstrikes using F-16 jets, targeting both military and civilian sites in Cambodia, including casinos allegedly used by the Cambodian military [https://jamaicainquirer.com/thailand-and-cambodia-trade-fresh-fire-as-new-ceasefire-talks-begin]. - The Cambodian government has accused Thailand of using cluster bombs, which are banned under international law, raising concerns about potential war crimes [https://www.sentinelassam.com/more-news/international/cambodia-accuses-thailand-of-dropping-cluster-bombs]. 2. **Humanitarian Impact**: - The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with a significant number of civilians injured and displaced. Reports indicate that the civilian death toll has reached 21, with many more injured [https://dailyworld.in/international/thai-military-continues-to-strike-multiple-targets-in-cambodian-territory-defence-ministry-655287.html]. - Over 500,000 people have fled their homes due to the ongoing violence, highlighting the severe impact on local communities [https://news.az/news/thai-border-clashes-force-500-000-to-flee-in-cambodia]. 3. **International Response**: - The international community is calling for de-escalation and a return to peace talks, but both nations continue to accuse each other of violating ceasefire agreements [https://www.cambodgemag.com/en/post/border-conflict-ongoing-tensions-economic-worries-and-a-deepening-humanitarian-crisis]. - ASEAN foreign ministers are set to meet to discuss the situation, but the effectiveness of these talks remains uncertain given the current hostilities [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]. ### Summary of Findings - **Major Conclusions**: The border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand has escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis, with both military actions and civilian casualties on the rise. The use of airstrikes and accusations of war crimes have complicated the situation, making diplomatic resolutions increasingly difficult. 1. **Military Aggression**: Thailand's use of F-16 jets and cluster bombs has been reported, leading to significant civilian casualties and international condemnation. 2. **Humanitarian Crisis**: The conflict has displaced over 500,000 people and resulted in a rising death toll, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. 3. **Diplomatic Efforts**: Despite ongoing military actions, there are calls for renewed peace talks, but the effectiveness of these discussions remains in question as hostilities continue. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further escalation poses a significant threat to regional stability and civilian safety [https://www.cambodgemag.com/en/post/thailand-deploys-f-16-fighter-jets-deep-into-cambodia-targeting-civilian-areas].