Escalating Tensions: Civilian Casualty in Thailand-Cambodia Border Clash

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia escalated, resulting in the first civilian casualty from a rocket attack. Both nations report continuous fighting over disputed border areas, with large troop involvement and significant civilian displacement. Accusations of inhumane actions and denials of military casualties deepen tensions.

In a significant escalation of tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border, a 63-year-old Thai villager was killed by a rocket attack from Cambodia, marking the first civilian death in the ongoing conflict. The fighting, sparked by a December 7 skirmish that injured two Thai soldiers, has led to more than two dozen fatalities and displaced over half a million people.

At the scene of the rocket impact in Thailand's Sisaket province, Associated Press reporters observed the grim aftermath, as rescue workers handled the body of victim Don Patchapan. The incident set a nearby house ablaze and drew condemnation from Thailand, accusing Cambodia of targeting civilians.

While the Cambodian government has sent BM-21 rockets across the border, claiming they couldn't be precisely targeted, Thailand has responded with airstrikes. Despite US President Trump's efforts to renew a previously brokered ceasefire, both countries remain locked in conflict, trading blame as military forces engage on new fronts.

(With inputs from agencies.)