File photo courtesy of Wikipedia

 

Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia persisted on Tuesday, with Thai officials confirming the civilian death toll has now reached 16. The Thai Defence Ministry has reported limited economic impacts so far, despite escalating military actions. Heavy shelling continues at strategic locations, with both sides exchanging fire.

 

In recent developments, Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated Cambodian forces continued their assault, prompting Thai military retaliation. BM-21 rockets targeted strategic sites like Hill 677 and the Chong An Ma border pass in Ubon Ratchathani early Tuesday. Subsequently, they deployed heavy weapons at Hill 350 and the Prasat Ta Khwai temple in Surin province, an ongoing flashpoint in the conflict.

 

From December 7 to 16, 16 Thai civilians died due to the fighting. Causes included rocket shrapnel and indirect impacts like traffic incidents and restricted access to medical care. Despite these events, the Department of Foreign Trade observed a minimal impact on Thailand's exports, with an overall growth of 13% year over year in the first ten months.

 

Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, Duangarthit Nidhi-u-tai, highlighted that Thai exports reached 9.3 trillion baht this year, despite border closures since July. In October alone, exports amounted to 900 billion baht, marking a 5.7% increase. Meanwhile, the deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nithee Sriprae, noted that foreign tourist arrivals have remained steady, without cancellations in major tourist hubs.

 

The TAT anticipates 32.8 million foreign visitors for the year, attributing any downturn to a prior decline in Chinese tourists, which now shows signs of recovery. Domestic tourism remains robust, especially in the north and northeast, despite rescheduling due to the conflict in areas like Trat. Sunday’s heavy fighting led to a curfew in Trat, but it has since been lifted.

 

The Thai cabinet allocated 2.44 billion baht from the government’s contingency fund to support military efforts along the eastern border. Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat confirmed the funds are geared toward army and navy operations in response to the ongoing tensions, reported the Bangkok Post.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Thai civilian deaths from the conflict have reached 16.
• Thailand's export growth continues despite border clashes.
• Tourist arrivals remain steady, with shifts in domestic travel.

Related Stories:

Rising Tensions: Is Full-Scale War Looming on the Thailand-Cambodia Border?

Cambodia Masses 12,000 Soldiers at Thai Border Amid Tensions

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

 

 

 

UPDATE
Two Thai Soldiers Killed in Clashes at Ta Kwai Temple

 

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

 

Two Thai soldiers were killed during intense overnight fighting near Ta Kwai temple and Hill 350, as clashes erupted along the Thai–Cambodian border. The Second Army Region confirmed that Cambodian forces attempted to advance into the area late on 16 December, triggering heavy exchanges of fire that continued into the night, with operations still under way into the morning.

 

According to a report published at 21:55 on 16 December by the Second Army Region’s official page, Thai forces were conducting military operations across the Ta Kwai temple–Hill 350–Hill 225 front. Thai units secured control of the Ta Kwai temple area and continued to establish security measures in surrounding zones, while maintaining positions at Hill 225 to control key strategic routes and prevent enemy reinforcements.

 

The army stated that clashes and the use of supporting fire occurred intermittently throughout the day, leaving the overall situation under active operations and assessment. Fighting intensified in the evening near the front of Ta Kwai temple after opposing forces attempted to move forward, prompting Thai troops to act according to operational plans and deploy appropriate force to contain the situation.

 

The Second Army Region confirmed the deaths of Sergeant Major Samroeng Klangprakhon and Private Phanuphat Saosa, describing their actions as courageous and selfless in the line of duty. The army expressed its deepest condolences to the families and said it would provide full welfare and entitlements, while urging the public and media to rely on official sources as operations have not yet concluded.

 

In Sa Kaeo province, the First Army Region reported continued engagements on 16 December, with Cambodian forces firing BM-21 rockets, artillery and grenade launchers in several areas, including Ta Phraya and Khok Sung districts. Authorities said temporary shelters have been opened across four districts in Sa Kaeo, housing 20,049 civilians in 44 centres.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Two Thai soldiers were killed during clashes near Ta Kwai temple and Hill 350 late on 16 December.

• The Second Army Region confirmed ongoing operations to secure strategic areas and block enemy reinforcements.

• The total number of Thai military fatalities in the border clashes has risen to 19.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Dailynews 2025-12-17

 

Isn't killing savilions a war crime

 

UPDATE
Cambodian Scam & Casino Site Destroyed in Thai Army Strike

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

 

Thai Army units have destroyed a site in Cambodia allegedly used previously as a scam centre and casino that served as a launch point for drone attacks against Thailand, according to an official social media post on December 16, 2025. The operation targeted an area near Chong Sa Taku, where the structures were hit by sustained gunfire and subsequently caught fire, leaving the site severely damaged. Images released online showed buildings engulfed in flames following the attack.

 

The incident was disclosed by the Facebook page “กองทัพบก ทันกระแส” (Royal Thai Army – Trending), which posted footage alongside a statement describing the location as a scammer base and casino in Cambodia. The post claimed the site was used as a point for launching drones to attack Thai territory. It stated that infantry, tanks and artillery units of the Thai Army carried out a coordinated assault until the area was rendered unusable.

 

According to the post, the location was described as both a source of “grey money” and a military target. The Thai Army said the operation took place in the Chong Sa Taku area, a border zone that has previously been referenced in security-related reports. The information released was said to have been authorised by the Second Army Region (ทภ.2), indicating internal military approval for the disclosure.

 

The announcement prompted widespread attention online, with the army’s message emphasising national sovereignty. The post included the statement: “แหล่งเงินเทา และเป้าหมายทางทหาร สิ้นสภาพ!!!” which translates to the site being completely destroyed as a grey-money source and military objective. No casualty figures or further operational details were provided in the statement.

 

The implications of the strike remain unclear, as there has been no immediate response detailed from Cambodian authorities within the released information. The Thai Army did not specify whether further actions would follow, nor did it outline any diplomatic or security measures connected to the incident. The focus of the communication remained on confirming the destruction of the site and its alleged role in drone operations against Thailand.

 

Amarin reported that further clarification is expected from official military or government channels regarding border security and any subsequent developments. Additional details may emerge concerning the use of drones, the nature of the targeted facilities, and the broader security situation along the Thai–Cambodian border. For now, the army’s statement stands as the primary account of the operation.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thai Army units destroyed a Cambodian site alleged to be a scam centre and casino on December 16, 2025.

• The army claims the location was used to launch drones to attack Thailand near Chong Sa Taku.

• The operation was authorised by the Second Army Region, with images released online.

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-17

 

UPDATE
Border Clashes Kill Two More Thai Troops, Death Toll Rises to 21

 

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

Two more Thai soldiers have been killed in fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border, pushing the confirmed death toll to 21 as clashes intensified on 17 December 2025. The latest fatalities were reported amid sustained artillery fire across multiple frontline areas, heightening concern over the escalating human impact of the conflict. Military officials confirmed the deaths as hostilities continued into the evening.

 

Staff Sergeant Phornsak Iamsala-ad was confirmed killed in action on 17 December 2025, becoming the 20th fatality since the border clashes intensified. He was a native of Phu Sing District in Sisaket Province. Later the same day, at 4.20 pm, one more Thai soldier was reported killed in action at the Nong Chan battlefield, bringing the total to 21.

 

The fighting remained intense throughout 17 December after Cambodian forces launched sustained artillery barrages into several locations. The shelling followed Thai troops successfully retaking a number of strategic positions along the border, prompting escalation on both sides. BM-21 rocket attacks were reported to have affected not only military targets but also civilian areas in Sa Kaeo Province.

 

Following confirmation of Private Phanuphat's death, his mother, Ms Phitchasinee Sao Sa, 41, was taken to Wang Hin Hospital after going into shock, doctors said. Her condition later stabilized. She said her son, the eldest of three children, had enlisted at 18 through the online recruitment system and usually contacted her almost every day.

 

Ms Phitchasinee said her son had recently told her he was transporting explosives to the frontline and warned that heavy fighting was imminent. He urged her to remain strong if anything happened to him and spoke of his ambition to become a career soldier. She said he hoped to rise in rank and support his two younger siblings through higher education.

 

Private Phanuphat's younger sister, Ms Suchawadee Inthawong, 15, said through tears that her brother had once told the family that if war broke out again and he died in an explosion, he would never return home. She said she felt proud of his sacrifice and asked for his body to be returned to the family. Military officials said efforts were continuing to recover casualties and assess further damage.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Two additional Thai soldiers were killed on 17 December 2025, raising the confirmed death toll to 21.

• Heavy artillery and BM-21 rocket fire continued along multiple sections of the Thai–Cambodian border.

• Fighting remained intense at Hill 350 and Nong Chan as Thai forces sought to secure contested areas.

 

 Adapted  by  Asean Now from  Dailynews  2025-12-17

 

 

Is there some way to send money to the families of killed or wounded Thai soldiers? Least way can do for those defending the land we call home.

23 hours ago, Hardcastle P said:

Isn't killing savilions a war crime

 

Not if they get in the way.

It’s sickening the way both Anutin and Hun Sen use there media outlets to use nationalism as a tool to escalate fear and tension in the population, and let innocent people die, in both countries to disguise the real reason for this sham conflict. It’s about power, and who controls the region, plain and simple.

1 hour ago, IsaanGuy said:

use there media outlets to use nationalism as a tool to escalate fear and tension in the population

 

On Twitter I keep seeing AI videos of soldiers getting shot or blown up. It makes it seem like this is all a big media production. And we still don't know the real reason for all this.

6 minutes ago, davb said:

 

On Twitter I keep seeing AI videos of soldiers getting shot or blown up. It makes it seem like this is all a big media production. And we still don't know the real reason for all this.

 

You do not know the real reason for this? Seriously? Do you think this is just Thailand vs Cambodia? Do you think Cambodia just teasing Thailand because of the temples? And have stock piles of Chinese weapons? 

7 minutes ago, Hummin said:

 

You do not know the real reason for this? Seriously? Do you think this is just Thailand vs Cambodia? Do you think Cambodia just teasing Thailand because of the temples? And have stock piles of Chinese weapons? 

I think Thaksin's business dealings had something to do with this, some sort of squabble that got out of hand, and China took advantage to destabilize its neighbors.

But I don't know how innocent the Thai side actually is.
 

10 minutes ago, davb said:

I think Thaksin's business dealings had something to do with this, some sort of squabble that got out of hand, and China took advantage to destabilize its neighbors.

But I don't know how innocent the Thai side actually is.
 

 

it is the same border conlflict where Cambodia wants Thailand to accept the French solution, which involves more right in the south border and the resources in the Thai bay as well the islands Koh Kong, Koh Kood and Koh Mak. After testing AI I see they do not include Koh Mak, so need to check up that a bit more closely. 

 

And china wants to be the major weapon provider, and of course a place to get their weapons tested for functionality as well the Oil and gas resources they have. Thailand have historically been a bit more western friendly, but we also know they will follow the wind if they have to. 

 

Also worth have a look at all the investments China have done in Cambodia and especially the Mekong river canal 

 

Yes, you're describing the core of the long-running Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, rooted in 

French colonial treaties (1904, 1907) that created ambiguous borders, leading to conflicts over territory, resources (oil/gas in the Overlapping Claims Area), and islands like Koh Kood (Koh Kut), which Cambodia claims based on historical interpretations of French maps, while Thailand holds current control and cites other maps. Cambodia wants Thailand to accept the French-drawn maps for maritime boundaries to grant Cambodia greater access to southern maritime areas and resources, which clashes with Thai interpretations and control, especially around resource-rich zones and islands like Koh Kood

2 minutes ago, Hummin said:

it is the same border conlflict where Cambodia wants Thailand to accept the French solution, which involves more right in the south border and the resources in the Thai bay

 

Probably, if you mean when Thaksin and Hun Sen agreed to share the offshore energy recourses in the Overlapping Claims Area (OCA). Of course with Thaksin now sidelined..........

3 minutes ago, VocalNeal said:

 

Probably, if you mean when Thaksin and Hun Sen agreed to share the offshore energy recourses in the Overlapping Claims Area (OCA). Of course with Thaksin now sidelined..........

Norway had the same issue with Russia in the north border, but managed to solve it peacefully, and surprisingly Russia accepted Norway a big part of the sharings 

 

Look at this article, and without taking any stand for or against Thaksin and his motives, there are solutions both parties could work with in the long run without leading to these violent border clashes. 

 

However, I have to avoid speaking my mind to my wife, they are all in to war against Cambodia now, because the thai propaganda working, and they do not see the Chinese view of it, they just see Cambodia as the aggressor, and only that. 

Just now, Hummin said:

Norway had the same issue with Russia in the north border, but managed to solve it peacefully, and surprisingly Russia accepted Norway a big part of the sharings 

 

Look at this article, and without taking any stand for or against Thaksin and his motives, there are solutions both parties could work with in the long run without leading to these violent border clashes. 

 

However, I have to avoid speaking my mind to my wife, they are all in to war against Cambodia now, because the thai propaganda working, and they do not see the Chinese view of it, they just see Cambodia as the aggressor, and only that. 

 

Worth mentioning, her brother is central down south when it comes to infrastructure, so they have their worries about whats going on. 

10 minutes ago, Hummin said:

 

Worth mentioning, her brother is central down south when it comes to infrastructure, so they have their worries about whats going on. 

 

and I can't talk to my wife about it without getting a 15 minute ear bashing. 

 

Apparently the US complained about Thailand cutting off Cambodian oil/fuel. Now she is try to pronounce Venezuela.

4 minutes ago, VocalNeal said:

 

and I can't talk to my wife about it without getting a 15 minute ear bashing. 

 

Well, seems Thailand is collected and motivated for what might coming. Maybe better than being divided? 

On 12/17/2025 at 10:03 AM, Hardcastle P said:

Isn't killing savilions a war crime

 

If they are killed directly, i.e., a soldier stands beside them and shoots them

 

In war, there will always be casualties; that is part of war.  

4 hours ago, Hummin said:

 

Well, seems Thailand is collected and motivated for what might coming. Maybe better than being divided? 

 

going to be interesting to see how the PP handle this issue.

 

BJT seems to have the opper hand right now

 

PTP well what canyou say about uncle

1 minute ago, kingstonkid said:

 

going to be interesting to see how the PP handle this issue.

 

BJT seems to have the opper hand right now

 

PTP well what canyou say about uncle

Can you elaborate for me? 

7 minutes ago, Hummin said:

Can you elaborate for me? 

 

People Party wants less military control and wanted to slash the budget

 

PTP hve a hard time considering that it was their PM that caused the big governmental issue withthe phone callto her uncle hun

 

BJT are the closest thing to a military party and took all the right steps after the famous phone call.  

On 12/17/2025 at 11:03 AM, Hardcastle P said:

Isn't killing savilions a war crime

 

Not according to Trump

From hospital beds, Cambodian soldiers describe 'toxic gas'

 

17 Dec 2025 07:58PM (Updated: 17 Dec 2025 08:09PM)

 

OU CHROV, Cambodia: Cambodian soldier Kun Yong said he had been forced to pull back from his frontline position recently after he had trouble breathing following a sortie by a Thai aircraft.

 

"It's like I was suffocating," he told Reuters as he lay in a hospital bed, with his wife by his side.

 

Since early December, Thailand and Cambodia have been locked in a border conflict that has killed more than 40 people and displaced over half a million in both countries, marking the fiercest fighting between the two Southeast Asian nations in decades.

 

From their hospital beds in Banteay Meanchey province in northwest Cambodia, several soldiers and police described experiencing respiratory problems after Thai aircraft dropped what they said was "poisonous water".

 

Cambodia's Ministry of Defence has claimed on almost a daily basis that the Thai military is using "toxic gas", including as recently as Wednesday (Dec 17) in the village where Kun Yong had been stationed. 

 

In a statement, the ministry called the use of gas, among other tactics, a clear violation of international law.

 

It has not named the suspected gas, provided evidence, or said whether it has formally protested its use to international authorities.

 

Spokespeople for the ministry and the national government did not answer phone calls seeking fresh comment.

 

Reuters could not independently verify the claims.

 

Thai Air Force spokesman Air Marshal Jackkrit Thammavichai told Reuters that the air force had never used chemical weapons, and called reports of their use "fake news" aimed at discrediting its operations.

 

If it were chemical weapons, they wouldn't be experiencing difficulties breathing, they would have died," he said.

 

 

"POISONOUS SMOKE"

 

During fighting in July, Cambodia accused Thailand of using white phosphorus munitions, which burn brightly and produce clouds of billowing smoke, describing it as chemical warfare.

 

Thailand acknowledged holding such munitions, but said at the time it was not designated as a chemical weapon under international conventions and was used for illumination, as a smoke screen, and for other approved uses.

 

According to the World Health Organization, exposure to white phosphorus fumes is harmful to the eyes and respiratory tract.

 

Cambodia has not specified whether it blames white phosphorus for the latest injuries.

 

Bong Bunnarith, a doctor at a hospital in Banteay Meanchey province, said he received around 20 soldiers last week with symptoms of dizziness, vomiting and difficulty breathing, but he could not determine exactly what had caused those symptoms without further testing.

 

"We provided whatever is available for them here before transferring to other hospitals," he said.

 

At another hospital, in Sisophon district in Banteay Meanchey, doctor Nak Vanny said he had treated twenty soldiers on Saturday with similar symptoms.

 

When Reuters visited on Sunday, several soldiers lay on beds, some using oxygen masks.

 

"They fired the poisonous smoke at our bases from the air to poison us," said soldier Khat Phally, 66.

 

Khieu Sophan, a 55-year-old policeman, said: "A moment after the firing, I felt like I was suffocating, and my body suddenly weakening."

 

 

Source: Reuters/rl(nh)

 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/thailand-cambodia-toxic-gas-border-conflict-5623461

Why little mention of Cambodian casualties? Thailand has 4X the military of Cambodia... plus navy/airforce Cambodia lacks....

I think that 'military asset' aka 'casino' is where we had lunch when doing visa runs from Pattaya back when...

What language is spoken in Eastern Thailand? What culture? 

Khmer

not Thai

why is that?

19 hours ago, IsaanGuy said:

It’s sickening the way both Anutin and Hun Sen use there media outlets to use nationalism as a tool to escalate fear and tension in the population, and let innocent people die, in both countries to disguise the real reason for this sham conflict. It’s about power, and who controls the region, plain and simple.

Wasn't it always the case ?

47 minutes ago, Emdog said:

What language is spoken in Eastern Thailand? What culture? 

Khmer

not Thai

why is that?

You mean the south of what is called Isaan ie NE Thailand.

 

Historical reasons. The borders between Thais & the Khmer Empire have moved back and forth several times over the last c800 years. Wikipedia would be a good starting point for your historical studies. 

 

My FIL (3 years older than me & no formal education) speaks poor Thai, but Khmer for preference. MIL speaks better Thai but also no education. Next generation speak both northern Khmer & Isaan Thai. Children quickly losing any Khmer they learned before schooling ...

Thailand supposedly has the larger military and more advanced military equipment...just blitz Cambodia into surrender - this little tit for tat and claiming and reclaiming territory is damaging Thailand and killing it's people. Just end it.

On 12/18/2025 at 9:43 PM, kingstonkid said:

 

going to be interesting to see how the PP handle this issue.

 

BJT seems to have the opper hand right now

 

PTP well what canyou say about uncle

The PP are being heavily criticised by the Bangkok Post for being naive and inexperienced while Anutin and the BJT are praised for their aggresive stance to "protect" Thailand's borders. 

8 minutes ago, DLock said:

Thailand supposedly has the larger military and more advanced military equipment...just blitz Cambodia into surrender - this little tit for tat and claiming and reclaiming territory is damaging Thailand and killing it's people. Just end it.

 

You obviously have no combat experience and have never been in a war zone. It would result in thousands of deaths and  billions of baht in damaged infrastructure.

1. There is no blitzing in this region. The topography and geography in general precludes that. Tanks are mostly useless in the jungle. Drones have changed everything and offer little protection.

2. This would require flat out jungle and intense urban warfare. Neither the Cambodians nor Thais are going to hold back on collateral damage when they get into the. rural towns and villages.There will be thousands of civilian casualties and refugees. If this intensifies,  infrastructure like dams and roads will be targeted.

3. The impact of an intensified conflict will disrupt air travel in the region, and potentially shut down marine traffic.

 

The end result will be justification for the Chinese military to deploy. This would include Chinese naval vessels off of Thailand. If Cambodia invites China in to assist, what do you think will happen? The US military will not  be deployed. The EU military  will not want to get into a conflict with China. The UK no longer has the ability to intervene. Thailand would be on its own. Is that what you want?

Meanwhile, this morning one plane from Thai Airways and on from Air Asia landed in Siem Reap, From Bangkok.