Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – Cambodia's Ministry of National Defense issued a statement on the 22nd, accusing the Thai military of significantly escalating its military aggression in Banteay Meanchey province, on the Cambodian-Thai border. The statement indicated that Thailand not only conducted multiple rounds of bombing raids with fighter jets but also allegedly dropped toxic gas into Cambodian territory.
According to the Ministry of National Defense statement, at 5:02 AM on the 22nd, the Thai military deployed F-16 fighter jets and dropped four bombs on the Punt Khun area of Ko Lom commune, Thla Mot Po district, Banteay Meanchey province; at 5:49 AM, Thailand launched a second, intensified bombing raid on the same area; at 7:03 AM, the Thai attack expanded, launching toxic gas into the Bai Cham village area of Banteay Meanchey province.
The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense emphasized in the statement that the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces are closely monitoring every development on the front lines. The Ministry of National Defense stated, "Cambodian soldiers have demonstrated fearless courage and unwavering will, maintaining the highest alert level at all times to resist external aggression. The Cambodian military will steadfastly fulfill its duties and defend the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty."
It is noteworthy that this escalation of military action coincides with the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Special Meeting. Today (22nd), ASEAN foreign ministers gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to hold emergency consultations on recent developments.
The core objective of the meeting is to enhance mutual understanding and trust among member states through diplomatic means, de-escalate the border situation, and strive to restore regional peace and stability on the basis of good neighborliness. Currently, the international community is closely watching whether the ASEAN meeting can provide an effective mediation solution for this armed conflict.
