Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

Three Thai soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, King’s Guard were killed while on duty defending Thailand’s sovereignty along the Thai–Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo province on 26 December 2025. The deaths prompted an official statement of condolence and tribute from the First Army Region, with funeral rites to be held with full military honours and support pledged for the families.

 

According to the First Army Region, the incident occurred in the area of Ban Nong Chan, Khok Sung district, Sa Kaeo, during an operational mission to secure the border. The soldiers who lost their lives were Sergeant First Class Phongsakorn Nakthongdee, Private Patipat Sornpradit and Private Thiwatawan Phonyiam. All three were serving with the same infantry unit assigned to border protection duties.

 

The army said the soldiers died while carrying out their responsibilities to protect national sovereignty in a sensitive border area. A statement released via the official First Army Region Facebook page expressed “deepest condolences” to the families and praised the soldiers’ sacrifice in the line of duty. The army confirmed it would oversee funeral ceremonies in accordance with military traditions and ensure all entitlements were provided in full to the bereaved families.

 

The incident occurred shortly after the conclusion of a special session of the General Border Committee (GBC) between Thailand and Cambodia. The meeting, formally titled the Special Session 3/2568 of the GBC, was held at the Ban Phak Kad permanent border checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province. The talks focused on border issues and mechanisms for maintaining stability between the two countries.

 

Officials indicated that the meeting had raised expectations of progress towards de-escalation. There were indications that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Thailand and Cambodia could be signed on 27 December 2025 at 10.00 am. The fatal incident occurred not long after the meeting concluded, heightening attention on the fragile situation along the border.

 

Daily News reported that the First Army Region reiterated its commitment to honouring the fallen soldiers and maintaining operational readiness in border areas. Authorities have not released further operational details about the incident, citing security considerations. The situation continues to be closely monitored by military and government officials on both sides.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Three Thai soldiers were killed on 26 December 2025 while defending the border in Sa Kaeo province.

• The deaths occurred shortly after a special Thai–Cambodian GBC meeting in Chanthaburi.

• The army will hold full military funerals and provide complete support to the families.

 

Related story

 

Thai-cambodian-ceasefire-expected-to-begin-December-27

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Dailynews 2025-12-27

 

 

UPDATE
Thai F-16s Strike Cambodian Military Area Ahead of Ceasefire

 

Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid 

 

Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets carried out an airstrike on a Cambodian military area in Banteay Meanchey province on December 27, shortly before a planned ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia was due to take effect. The strike targeted the Phong Ro–Kong Wa military zone in Serei Saophoan district, marking a sharp escalation in fighting just hours before hostilities were expected to pause.

 

The incident was reported at 08:07 local time by the Facebook page Army Military Force, which shared video footage and stated that the airstrike occurred at approximately 07:30. The attack took place in Banteay Meanchey province, also known as Banteay Mean Chey, on the Cambodian side of the border, underscoring the intensity of clashes leading up to the ceasefire.

 

Fighting between Thai and Cambodian forces had intensified again on the evening of December 26, despite earlier agreement at the secretary-general level of the General Border Committee (GBC) to implement a ceasefire on December 27. The renewed violence followed discussions in which both sides had expressed support for halting hostilities.

 

According to the report, Cambodian forces were said to have launched intensified attacks in an attempt to gain a tactical advantage before the ceasefire came into force. Thai forces responded with counter-attacks, culminating in the air operation involving F-16 fighter jets early on December 27.

 

The developments highlight the fragility of the ceasefire arrangement and the volatility of the situation along the Thai–Cambodian border. While no casualty figures or damage assessments were provided in the report, the use of air power represented a significant escalation compared with earlier exchanges.

 

Military activity occurring so close to the agreed ceasefire deadline raised concerns about the effectiveness of coordination and communication mechanisms established through the GBC process. The agreement to halt fighting was intended to reduce tensions after earlier clashes, but events on the ground suggested both sides remained on high alert.

 

Thaitabloid reported that attention is expected to focus on whether the ceasefire agreed by Thailand and Cambodia will hold following the latest exchanges. Observers will be watching closely for official statements or confirmations from both governments and their armed forces regarding compliance with the ceasefire and any follow-up negotiations through established border management channels.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thai F-16 jets struck a Cambodian military zone in Banteay Meanchey on December 27 at around 07:30.

• The attack occurred hours before a ceasefire agreed by Thailand and Cambodia was due to take effect.

• Fighting intensified on December 26 as both sides exchanged attacks ahead of the planned truce.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from  MGRonline 2025-12-27

 

Ceasefires - particularly in rugged terrain with poor demarcation of lines & troop positioning - will work only if both sides pull their forces back a bit to reduce the likelihood of 'accidents' occurring.

Ceasefire will only occur when both sides political agendas are satisfied

UPDATE
Thai Gripen and F-16 Strike Cambodian Military Targets

 

Picture courtesy of MGR

 

Thai Air Force Gripen and F-16 fighter jets carried out a joint air strike on Cambodian military targets on the morning of 27 Dec, as fighting between Thailand and Cambodia intensified along the border. The operation involved bombing a weapons depot and military bases on Phnom Dong Rak hill, according to reports shared online.

 

The strike took place at approximately 08:25, with video footage later posted on the Facebook page Army Military Force showing the aircraft conducting the mission. The targets were located in Trapeang Prasat area, Anlong Veng district, Udor Meanchey province in Cambodia, in the direction of the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing in Phu Sing district, Si Sa Ket province. The immediate impact was reported as a direct hit on identified military facilities.

 

The latest operation was made public after the Army Military Force page posted video clips at around 08:30, shortly after the strike occurred. The footage showed Gripen and F-16 jets operating together, highlighting coordinated air capabilities. No official casualty figures or damage assessments were released in the immediate aftermath.

 

Authorities have not yet issued detailed statements outlining the broader implications of the operation. However, the continued intensity of fighting raises concerns about further action and the potential for prolonged instability along the frontier. Developments are being closely monitored by security officials and the public.

 

Thaitabloid reported that the situation is expected to remain fluid, with further updates likely as both sides assess the outcome of the strike. Monitoring of border areas is ongoing, and additional military movements cannot be ruled out. Official briefings may provide greater clarity on next steps and diplomatic or security responses.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thai Gripen and F-16 jets carried out a joint bombing operation at 08:25 on 27 Dec.

• Targets included a weapons depot and military bases on Phnom Dong Rak hill in Cambodia’s Udor Meanchey province.

• The strike occurred amid intensifying clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border near Chong Sa-ngam.

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from MGRonline 2025-12-27

 

 

But the Cambodians are the aggressors......

UPDATE
Thai–Cambodian Border Clashes Intensify with BM-21 Rocket Fire

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

 

Fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border intensified on 27 December 2025, as Cambodian forces launched BM-21 multiple rocket fire into Thai territory through the early morning, prompting Thai counterattacks using artillery, drones and air power. The Second Army Region reported that Thai forces retained control of all key strategic areas, despite injuries to personnel and damage reported in civilian zones in several provinces.

 

According to the summary issued at 08.00 on 27 December, the clashes followed sustained fighting on 26 December along multiple sections of the border, particularly in Si Sa Ket province. Thai forces faced continuous fire from Cambodian support weapons, while responding with artillery and aerial operations aimed at destroying weapons positions and supply routes.

 

The confrontation forms part of an escalation that has seen repeated exchanges of supporting fire rather than large-scale ground assaults. Thai commanders reported that Cambodian forces relied heavily on BM-21 rockets, drones and armoured assets, while Thai units focused on area denial, counter-battery fire and precision strikes on military targets.

 

Along the Ubon Ratchathani border at Chong Bok and Chong An Ma, Thai troops maintained full defensive deployments and reinforced hardened positions. Cambodian bunkers in the area were cleared or destroyed as Thai forces sought to stabilise the situation and secure key terrain.

 

In Si Sa Ket, heavy clashes were reported across several locations, including Samtae, Don Tuan, Phu Phi, Sattasom, Phanom Prasit So and Chong Ta Thao. Cambodian fire was met with Thai artillery and drone strike and a convoy of five Cambodian vehicles detected at night was destroyed by Thai supporting fire, with no major ground offensive observed.

 

The Pha Mo I Daeng–Huai Ta Ma Ria area was identified as the main flashpoint of the day, with continuous artillery exchanges from before dawn. Cambodian BM-21 rockets struck Thai positions, while Thai forces countered by destroying opposing fire bases, sustaining minor injuries from shrapnel but holding the area.

 

Further clashes occurred in Surin, Buriram and at Ta Muen Thom, where Cambodian tanks, BM-21 rockets and numerous drones were observed. Thai forces continued suppressive fire and defensive operations, while authorities investigated reports of rockets and shells landing in civilian communities in Si Sa Ket and Surin.

 

Amarin reported that overnight into the morning of 27 December, Cambodian BM-21 launches continued, leading Thailand to deploy artillery and aircraft to strike Cambodian targets and disrupt troop and weapon supply routes.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Cambodian BM-21 rocket fire continued into the morning of 27 December, escalating border tensions.

• Thai forces responded with artillery, drones and air strikes while holding all strategic positions.

• Civilian areas in Si Sa Ket and Surin were affected by stray rockets and shells, with damage under review.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-27

 

8 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

But the Cambodians are the aggressors......

 

Yes ikke, I believe Cambodia ARE the aggressors. Thailand is in the process of defending itself. However, once hostilities are under way, retaliation on both sides escalates, as reported by George above !

 

I read that a cease fire has been agreed commencing about now ! Let's see.

 

Regarding the origins, there's a 'Deep Dive' inside the link below - IMO a scholarly discussion of the origins

 

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3161489/thaicambodian-ceasefire-possibility-to-be-discussed-on-wednesday

 

But right now - it's awful. Both sides please stop . . . .

1 hour ago, TorquayFan said:

 

Yes ikke, I believe Cambodia ARE the aggressors. Thailand is in the process of defending itself. However, once hostilities are under way, retaliation on both sides escalates, as reported by George above !

 

I read that a cease fire has been agreed commencing about now ! Let's see.

 

Regarding the origins, there's a 'Deep Dive' inside the link below - IMO a scholarly discussion of the origins

 

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3161489/thaicambodian-ceasefire-possibility-to-be-discussed-on-wednesday

 

But right now - it's awful. Both sides please stop . . . .

Just before the cease fire Thailand attacked Cambodia. It is normal that they respond is that not. Suppose Cambodia attacked Thailand just beforebthr cease fire. Eould Thailand not respond too? Common sense please... If everyone want to have the last word it never stops

UPDATE
Thailand And Cambodia Sign 72-Hour Ceasefire Deal

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

 

Thailand and Cambodia have signed a joint statement agreeing to a 72-hour ceasefire and a temporary halt in fighting in exchange for the release of 18 Cambodian prisoners, under ASEAN observation. The agreement was formalised on 27 December, following a brief meeting between senior defence officials at the Ban Phakkat permanent checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province. The immediate impact is a time-limited cessation of hostilities while both sides implement the agreed exchange.

 

The talks began at 10.00am when Thailand’s Defence Minister, General Nattapol Nakpanich, arrived at the checkpoint and joined a meeting of the Thai–Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC). Cambodia was represented by Defence Minister General Tea Seiha, with both delegations displaying visibly tense demeanours throughout the discussions. Officials from the GBC secretariat on both sides attended and the meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes.

 

The joint statement sets out terms in line with the Kuala Lumpur agreement reached between Thailand and Cambodia on 26 October. Under the arrangement accepted by Cambodia, the 72-hour ceasefire is linked to Thailand transferring 18 Cambodian soldiers held as prisoners, as previously discussed at the secretariat level. ASEAN observers were present, led by Brigadier General Samsul Rizal bin Musa, Assistant Defence Attaché of Malaysia to Thailand and head of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) in Thailand.

 

The background to the agreement includes intensified clashes along the border in recent days, involving heavy weapons and air operations, which raised regional concern and prompted ASEAN monitoring. The Kuala Lumpur framework was designed to provide a mechanism for de-escalation, and the latest signing represents a practical step towards implementing that framework. Despite this, the atmosphere at the signing underscored the fragility of the situation.

 

Observers noted that both sides appeared strained, with no visible smiles during the signing and minimal eye contact during the handshake between General Nattapol and General Tea Seiha. The presence of ASEAN observers highlighted regional efforts to prevent further escalation and to ensure compliance during the ceasefire window. The agreement does not alter underlying territorial disputes but focuses on immediate risk reduction.

 

Amarin reported that the next 72 hours will be critical as both sides are expected to uphold the ceasefire and carry out the agreed transfer of prisoners. ASEAN observers will continue monitoring developments on the ground. Further talks may be required depending on compliance and conditions along the border once the ceasefire period concludes.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a 72-hour ceasefire linked to the exchange of 18 Cambodian prisoners.

• The deal follows a 30-minute GBC meeting on 27 December 2568 at Ban Phakkat checkpoint in Chanthaburi.

• ASEAN observers, led by Malaysia’s Brig Gen Samsul Rizal bin Musa, are monitoring implementation.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-27

 

46 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

If everyone want to have the last word it never stops

 

Yes ikke, agreed. But obviously, once the ceasefire is agreed, as it is now, to respond after 10.00 am is a breach

 

Good news from George above, but just 72 hours ? What then ? ATB

15 minutes ago, TorquayFan said:

Good news from George above, but just 72 hours ? What then ? ATB

Expect loud bangs on new years eve

It will probably start at midnight tonight. As of noon today, Dec 27, I can still hear artilery fire here in Phanom Dong Rak.

UPDATE
Thailand and Cambodia Sign 16-point Border De-escalation Deal

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

Thailand and Cambodia announced on Saturday that they have signed a 16-point agreement to implement a ceasefire aimed at ending weeks of armed clashes along their disputed border. The ceasefire took effect at noon on December 27, 2025, immediately halting active hostilities between the two sides. The agreement is intended to stabilise the situation and prevent further escalation.

 

The deal includes provisions requiring both countries to refrain from further military movements in border areas and to avoid violations of each other’s airspace for military purposes. According to a statement previously issued by Cambodia’s defence ministry, only Thailand had used airstrikes during the fighting, including strikes carried out as recently as Saturday morning. The ceasefire is designed to ensure that such actions do not recur.

 

Under the new agreement, Thailand is required to repatriate the 18 Cambodian soldiers after the ceasefire has been fully maintained for 72 hours. This condition was a key demand from the Cambodian side and is seen as a confidence-building measure following months of strained relations. The release is contingent on strict adherence to the ceasefire terms.

 

The agreement was formalised during the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting held at the Prum (Pailin Province of Cambodia) – Ban Pak Kard (Chanthaburi Province of Thailand) international point of entry. The meeting was co-chaired by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Tea Seiha and Thai Defence Minister General Nattaphon Narkphanit. An ASEAN Observer Team participated in the meeting as an observer.

 

In their joint statement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful settlement of disputes in line with the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. They also recalled the ASEAN Chair’s Statement issued after the Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2025. The statement emphasised mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law.

 

The two governments reiterated their commitment to fully implement the ceasefire arrangement of July 28, 2025, as well as all subsequent agreements reached through existing bilateral mechanisms. They agreed to return to dialogue with the aim of restoring normalcy and establishing lasting peace along the border.

 

Khoasod reported that both sides indicated that ongoing confidence-building measures and continued engagement through established channels will be essential in preventing renewed hostilities. ASEAN’s involvement is expected to continue as the ceasefire is monitored and further steps are taken.

 

De-escalation Measures

 

1.Both sides agree to an immediate ceasefire after the time of signature of this Joint Statement with effect from 12:00 hours noon (local time) on 27 December 2025, involving all types of weapons, including attacks on civilians, civilian objects and infrastructures, and military objectives of either side, in all cases and all areas. Both sides must avoid unprovoked firing or advancement or movement of troops towards the other side’s positions or troops. This agreement must not be violated under any circumstances.

 

2. Both sides agree to maintain current troop deployments without further movement. There shall be no troop movements, including patrol towards the other side’s position.

3. Both sides agree that all arrangements under this Joint Statement are without prejudice to the border demarcation and international boundary between the two countries. Both sides agree to refer to the Joint Boundary Commission to resume, at the earliest, the survey and demarcation works, in accordance with existing agreements between the two countries to achieve lasting peace along the border. Both sides agree to utilize Joint Boundary Commission’s existing mechanisms to ensure safety and security of the joint survey team on the ground, including its safety from landmines. Both sides agree that the Joint Boundary Commission will accord the first and foremost priority for the immediate survey and demarcation works in the affected border areas where the civilians resided.

4. Both sides agree to allow civilians residing in the affected border areas to return at the earliest, without obstruction and in safety and dignity, to their homes and normal livelihoods in areas within their own side.

5. Both sides agree not to increase forces along the entire Cambodia-Thailand border. Any reinforcement would heighten tensions and negatively affect long-term efforts to resolve the situation.

6. Both sides agree not to undertake provocative actions that may escalate tensions. This includes military activities to enter the other side’s air space and territory or positions as of ceasefire. Both sides agree to refrain from constructing or enhancing any military infrastructure or fortifications beyond their own side.

7. Both sides agree not to use any kind of forces against civilians and civilian objects in all circumstances. Such actions would not only endanger communities in the border areas but also violate international law and tarnish the global image of the non-compliant side.

8. Both sides agree to refrain from disseminating false information or fake news in order to de-escalate tensions, mitigate negative public sentiment, and foster an environment conducive to peaceful dialogue.

 

9. Both sides reaffirm their obligations under the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mine and on Their Destruction (Ottawa Convention). Both sides will work together through the Joint Coordinating Task Force (JCTF) on Humanitarian Demining in accordance with the agreed Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to make timely progress on demining efforts along the border.

 

10. Both sides agree to adhere to the Action Plan for Cooperation on the Prevention and Suppression of Transnational Crimes, including Cyber Scams and Human Trafficking,between the Cambodian National Police and the Royal Thai Police, and reaffirm the commitment to enhance cooperation aimed at preventing online scams, addressing the misuse of digital platforms, and promoting responsible and accurate information in a manner that contributes to trust, stability, and good neighbourly relations.

 

11. In the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration on 26 October 2025, the 18 Cambodian soldiers will be returned to Cambodia after the ceasefire has been fully maintained for 72 hours.

 

Mechanisms for the Implementation and Verification of De-escalation Measures

 

 12. Both sides recognize the important role of ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) and agree to strengthen the roles of the AOT, in consultation with both the ASEAN Chair and the AOT, in verifying and ensuring the effective implementation of all the measures in this Joint Statement.

 

13. To ensure effective implementation, both sides agree to utilize the Cambodia-Thailand and Thailand-Cambodia Border Coordination Units to ensure that the ceasefire is sustained, manage situations on the ground, address incidents in a timely manner, and prevent miscalculation under the observation and verification of the ASEAN Observer Team.

 

14. Both sides will maintain regular and direct lines of communication between their Ministers of Defence and Chiefs of Defence Forces for prompt response to urgent situations that cannot be addressed at the local level. If required, high-level representatives from both sides will meet to effectively resolve any issues on the ground.

 

15. The JCTF will notify respective local authorities of its own side as well as the JCTF of another side to be aware of and to facilitate the Humanitarian Demining operations in the agreed priority border areas according to the Action Plans agreed by both sides for smooth operation without any obstructions or misunderstanding.

 

16. Official media teams from both sides will maintain regular and direct communication to ensure the effective prevention and management of misinformation and disinformation. They will also ensure transparency and accuracy of news and reports to enhance mutual trust.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thailand and Cambodia implemented a ceasefire at noon on December 27, 2025, to halt weeks of border fighting.

• The agreement restricts military movements and airspace violations, and includes the planned release of 18 Cambodian soldiers after 72 hours.

• The deal was signed at a General Border Committee meeting with ASEAN observers present.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-27

 

😂They can never stop!

UPDATE
Thai Soldier Loses Leg in Landmine Blast in Sisaket

 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

A Thai Army private has lost his right leg after stepping on a landmine while on duty in Sisaket province, marking the tenth such incident involving Thai personnel in the area. The injury occurred on 27 December 2025 and prompted an emergency medical evacuation, with the soldier now receiving treatment under close medical supervision.

 

The Royal Thai Army reported that the injured serviceman was Private Narin Ngaprai, who was operating in the Khao Sattasom area of Sisaket. He was wounded at around 11.30am when he triggered a PMN-2 anti-personnel landmine during an operational mission. The blast caused the traumatic amputation of his right leg and he was immediately evacuated by helicopter to Surin Hospital.

 

Army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree confirmed the details of the incident on 27 December 2025. He stated that the Royal Thai Army had received an official report from the Second Army Region shortly after the explosion. Medical teams provided urgent assistance at the scene before arranging the helicopter transfer to Surin Hospital.

 

Following the evacuation, the army confirmed that Private Narin is currently being closely monitored by doctors. No further updates on his condition were provided beyond confirmation that he is receiving ongoing care. The military has not released additional details about his long-term prognosis.

 

In response to the incident, security forces have sealed off and are strictly controlling the area where the landmine detonated. Safety checks and inspections are under way to prevent further harm to personnel operating in the vicinity. Authorities have not disclosed whether additional unexploded mines have been found.

 

Khoasod reported that the blast adds to a growing number of similar incidents in the region, raising continued concerns about landmine risks in operational zones. The army has not announced any immediate changes to deployment or clearance procedures but indicated that safety measures are being reviewed as operations continue.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A Thai Army private lost his right leg after stepping on a PMN-2 landmine in Sisaket on 27 December 2025.

• The injured soldier was airlifted to Surin Hospital and remains under close medical care.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-27