Thai Army Launches Artillery Strike on Cambodian Troops at Phu Ma Khuea

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

In a forceful military response to a series of Cambodian cross-border attacks, The Second Army Region confirmed the launch of a targeted artillery strike against two Cambodian battalions positioned in the Phu Ma Khuea area on the afternoon of 24 July.

At 13:25, the Second Army issued an official statement on social media, declaring that the bombardment was carried out in accordance with Thailand’s legal right to self-defence, as enshrined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The article affirms that member states may use force to defend themselves when under armed attack, provided such action is reported immediately to the UN Security Council.

The Thai military stated that the strike was launched in retaliation for Cambodian attacks earlier in the day that targeted civilian areas in Kab Choeng District, Surin province, including a hospital, petrol station and ancient heritage sites.

“The Royal Thai Army is committed to the principles of international humanitarian law and strictly limits its response to legitimate military objectives,” the statement read. “We do not target cultural property such as ancient temples, and we reject the use of such assets for military purposes, which would forfeit their protected status under international law.”

The artillery barrage reportedly focused on neutralising two battalions of Cambodian troops near Phu Ma Khuea, with Thai military commanders emphasising that the response was precise and proportionate.

Thailand’s Second Army further reiterated its commitment to peace, legality, and respect for human rights, but warned that violations of Thai sovereignty would not go unanswered.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-24