Thailand Launches Airstrikes on Cambodia Amid Fears of Trump’s Peace Agreement Collapse

Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodia on Monday, escalating tensions along their disputed border. The strikes come after a border clash earlier in the day, in which a Thai soldier was killed and several others injured, triggering retaliation. The renewed fighting threatens the fragile peace agreement brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump just two months ago.

Thai military spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree confirmed that the airstrikes targeted Cambodian artillery positions near the Chong An Ma Pass, which were responsible for the attack on Thai forces at Anupong Base. “We had no choice but to strike back,” Suvaree said.

However, Cambodia denied the allegations, calling them “false” and insisting they had not provoked the violence. “Cambodia is committed to peaceful resolution and international law,” said Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense.

The escalating violence risks undoing months of diplomatic efforts, including an October ceasefire agreement signed by both nations with Trump’s involvement. The ceasefire had been seen as a breakthrough, but less than two weeks later, Thailand halted progress on the deal following a landmine explosion at the border.

ASEAN Urges Restraint

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed concern, urging both sides to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation. “The situation could derail the peace process,” he warned.

The border conflict has displaced thousands, and with Thailand evacuating civilians from the border region, fears of a wider humanitarian crisis grow. Both nations have long had disputes over the area, with a deadly five-day conflict in July that displaced around 200,000 people.

As the situation worsens, international diplomats face a critical test in their efforts to salvage the peace process.