Surin: The Royal Thai Air Force deployed F-16 fighter jets to conduct bombing operations in response to a rocket attack by Cambodian forces targeting the Ta Muen Thom Temple, a site within Thai territory. The escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between the two neighboring countries.
According to Thai News Agency, the Air Force dispatched two squadrons, consisting of four F-16s, to the Prasat Ta Muen Thom and Prasat Ta Kwai areas in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. The mission aimed to support ground forces in safeguarding Thailand’s sovereignty and was successfully executed, with all aircraft returning safely to their base.
Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari, an army spokesman, revealed on the army’s Facebook page that Cambodia continues to utilize long-range weaponry in its operations against Thailand. Clashes have been reported in multiple regions along the border, with several long-range projectiles landing outside designated military zones in Surin Province. Thai military operations have been deemed necessary to counter these persistent threats and protect civilians from potential harm or losses.
In a related incident, Cambodian artillery targeted the Ban Sam Meng Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital in Sisaket Province, causing significant damage but resulting in no casualties due to prior evacuation of patients. Reports suggest the potential deployment of additional advanced weapon systems by Cambodian forces, indicating a lack of trust towards Thai intentions.
The Royal Thai Army has committed to operating at full capacity to counteract aggression, focusing solely on military targets that pose threats. This approach aligns with international regulations to uphold and defend Thailand’s sovereignty.
On July 27, 2015, at approximately 6:30 a.m., four unidentified rockets launched from Samrong Airport damaged two Thai homes and killed five animals. Thai operations have concentrated on securing areas along the operational line in Ubon Ratchathani Province, with Cambodian forces attempting incursions into strategic locations such as Chong Ta Tao and Prasat Ta Kwai.
The situation remains tense, with Cambodia potentially preparing for increased military activities before any negotiations. Neutral countries, including the United States, have proposed solutions to de-escalate the conflict.
Evacuation efforts are underway, with provincial agencies relocating residents from high-risk areas to safer zones across four provinces: Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. A total of 107,077 individuals have been evacuated, reflecting a recent increase in displacement as tensions continue to rise.