Thailand explains reason for abandoning border post as Cambodia counterattacks

Thailand stated its forces had to withdraw from the Ban Khlong Phaeng post after Cambodia counterattacked with heavy firepower, including BM-21 rocket launchers.

Cambodian news outlet Fresh News on 11/12 published a video depicting its forces advancing into the Boeng Trakuon border control post in Thmar Puok district, Banteay Meanchey province, adjacent to Thailand's Sa Kaeo province. This development came a day after Thai soldiers, backed by armored vehicles, had raised their flag at the Boeng Trakuon post on 9/12.

The Thai army reported today that intense clashes with Cambodian forces are continuing in the border province of Sa Kaeo. Colonel Ritcha Suksuwan, deputy spokesperson for the Thai army, stated that Cambodian forces deployed heavy firepower, including BM-21 rocket launchers, which injured two Thai soldiers and rendered attempts to maintain the position "impossible".

Cambodian soldiers reclaim border post in Banteay Meanchey province on 11/12. Video: Fresh News

"We assessed that safe control of this area was not possible, leading Thai units to withdraw from the border post. Cambodian forces then advanced and lowered the Thai flag," he said, emphasizing that the position "remains within an area Thailand aims to regain control of."

The Thai army asserted it had full control of the Ban Nong Ya Kaeo area in Khok Sung district, Sa Kaeo province, and was "continuing to attack key positions."

Cambodian officials have not yet commented on the information.

Cambodia had previously stated that the area has fixed border markers, but Thai forces still entered and engaged in combat. General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for Cambodia's Ministry of National Defense, accused the Thai army of actions contrary to international law, launching preemptive attacks on Cambodian soldiers and civilians.

Thai soldiers raise flag at Boeng Trakuon post on 9/12. Photo: Khaosod

The new round of clashes between Cambodia and Thailand has entered its 6th day, despite international efforts to promote a ceasefire.

Cambodia reported 11 civilian deaths and 76 injuries, while Thailand announced 9 soldiers and 3 civilians killed, with 120 injured. Hundreds of thousands of civilians in the border region of both countries have been evacuated.