BANGKOK — The Thai government has accused Cambodia of intensifying military assaults along their shared border while falsely claiming pursuit of peace, as clashes entered their fifth day with mounting civilian casualties and destruction.

Thai Air Force Conducts Precision Strikes on Cambodian Positions Near Ancient Temples

Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai revealed Sunday that Cambodian forces had expanded attacks across the entire 800-kilometer frontier, from Thailand’s northeast to Trat province in the east. “Cambodia initiated these hostilities, yet now portrays Thailand as the aggressor,” he stated during an inspection visit to Trat, where he documented damage to homes, hospitals, and a petrol station.

Allegations of War Crimes

Thai military officials presented evidence of Cambodian artillery and multi-barrel rocket systems—including PHL-03, RM-70, and BM-21 launchers—targeting civilian infrastructure. Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree confirmed shells struck Ban Sammoeng Hospital in Si Sa Ket Saturday, with no casualties due to prior evacuations.

Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Armed Forces, condemned Cambodia’s alleged use of human shields, asserting weapon deployments in residential areas violated the Geneva Conventions. Thailand reports 13 civilians killed and 36 wounded in the attacks.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged Cambodia and Thailand to immediately de-escalate tensions and agree to a ceasefire during phone calls with the two countries’ top diplomats on July 27. pic.twitter.com/gJul9B24HD

— Saory Pon (@saorypon) July 27, 2025

Ceasefire “Insincerity” Exposed

Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Narkphanit cited Cambodia’s 2 a.m. artillery barrage Sunday—just three hours after Cambodian leaders discussed ceasefire plans with U.S. President Donald Trump—as proof of bad faith. He also referenced Cambodia’s June withdrawal from Chong Bok, where troops allegedly left behind anti-personnel mines.

Temple Ruins Become Battlegrounds

The Second Army Region warned of Cambodian troop movements toward Preah Vihear, Ta Kwai, and Ta Muen temple ruins, suggesting Phnom Penh may launch “maximum damage” assaults before any truce. Thailand has vowed proportionate retaliation, insisting it strikes only military targets.

Cambodian Artillery Strikes Second Thai Hospital in Escalating Border Conflict

With Cambodia yet to respond to Thailand’s latest accusations, regional powers scramble to mediate as displacement figures surpass 185,000.

-Thailand News (TN)