News|ConflictCambodia says Thailand bombed casino hub on border, with no truce in sightDespite Trump claim of ceasefire, no end on horizon to latest round of conflict recently reignited by border skirmish.
The Ministry of Defense of Cambodia has reported an incident involving alleged bombing by Thailand's military in the region of Poipet, a notable land crossing between the two countries. This area has been a focal point in the ongoing border disputes…
The Ministry of Defense of Cambodia has reported an incident involving alleged bombing by Thailand's military in the region of Poipet, a notable land crossing between the two countries. This area has been a focal point in the ongoing border disputes between the two nations.
According to a statement released on Thu, Dec 16, 2025, the Cambodian ministry claimed that two bombs were dropped in Poipet, located in the Banteay Meanchey province, at approximately 11:00 am local time (04:00 GMT).
At the moment of the report, the Thai authorities had not confirmed the alleged strike on Poipet, which is a popular destination for Thai gamblers. The Cambodian Ministry of the Interior reported that at least four casinos have suffered damage due to these strikes.
The recent escalation of hostilities has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 21 fatalities reported in Thailand and 17 in Cambodia. Approximately 800,000 individuals have been displaced due to the conflict.
This area has been a focal point in the ongoing border disputes between the two nations.
Thailand announced on Tuesday that between 5,000 and 6,000 of its nationals are stranded in Poipet following Cambodia's decision to close its land borders. The Cambodian Interior Ministry stated that the closures were a "necessary measure" to ensure civilian safety, although air travel remains available for those wishing to leave.
Earlier this year, in July, fighting between Cambodia and Thailand resulted in numerous casualties before a temporary truce was facilitated by the United States, China, and Malaysia. However, this truce was short-lived, and fighting resumed shortly thereafter.
Despite recent claims by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a new ceasefire agreement, the Thai government has denied the existence of any such truce. Hostilities involving artillery, tanks, drones, and jets have persisted daily since a border skirmish reignited the conflict.
The root cause of the ongoing conflict is a territorial dispute over the demarcation of their 800 km (500-mile) shared border, which dates back to colonial times, as well as issues surrounding ancient temple ruins situated along the border. Both nations have accused each other of initiating the renewed hostilities and of targeting civilians.
In response to the escalation, China has announced the deployment of its special envoy for Asian affairs to Cambodia and Thailand on Thu, Dec 16, 2025, to engage in shuttle diplomacy aimed at restoring peace between the two countries.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
