Boiling Tensions: Cambodia Launches Shelling into Thai 2nd Army Region

Bangkok: The situation on the Thai-Cambodian border remains highly tense, with three fronts of conflict open in southern Isaan, Sa Kaeo, and Trat provinces. Cambodia launched suicide drone attacks at Chong Phaya Sataban, Chong An Ma, and Hill 561.

According to Thai News Agency, the Cambodian 2nd Army Area launched an attack in the early hours of the morning. The "2nd Army Area" Facebook page reported the situation frequently and continuously. At 6:00 AM, a post stated: "BM-21s have arrived as planned. Military operations have begun in the areas of Sam Tae, Phu Phi, Chong Ta Thao, and Prasat Ta Kwai. Cambodia will photograph everything to show the world. The situation in the area is still ongoing with fighting. Further details will be reported."

Later, at 6:40 AM, the "2nd Army Area" Facebook page posted another message stating that Cambodia opened fire first. The 2nd Army Area responded according to the rules of engagement to neutralize the threat and ensure the safety of lives and property of people in the border area. The 2nd Army Area emphasized its commitment to defending sovereignty.

By 8:00 AM, the 2nd Army Region reported that Cambodia had shelled eight key locations, stating that heavy artillery shelling had struck Thai territory in the areas of Preah Vihear, Phum Makheua, Hill 600, Ban Phum Srol (Moo 12), Chong An Ma, Chong Bok, Prasat Ta Kwai, and Phlanyaw.

Approximately half an hour later, another message was posted about heavy drone shelling occurring in Thai territory in the areas of Phaya Sataban, Chong An Ma, and Hill 561. The 2nd Army Region reiterated its commitment to defending national sovereignty. The atmosphere in the area was calm, with only occasional artillery fire, though less frequent than the previous day.

This round of clashes involved a new tactical approach, which the 2nd Army Region posted about, highlighting Cambodia's FPV UAV tactics and operational recommendations.

Approximately one hour ago, the 2nd Army Area Operations Center summarized the situation: Since 4:50 AM, Cambodian troops have continuously attacked with BM-21 multiple rocket launchers and drone bombings, including suicide drones, targeting bases and strongholds on multiple fronts, particularly in the Phum Makheua and Prasat Ta Muen Thom areas. Cambodian forces are making efforts to retake these locations. BM-21 shells have landed in civilian areas. Thai forces have retaliated with direct and indirect fire, maintaining control of key areas and responding according to plan, impacting the enemy's capabilities.