The Royal Thai Armed Forces returned the bodies of 12 Cambodian soldiers to Cambodian authorities at the Chong Sangam border crossing this afternoon. The soldiers were killed in fighting at Phu Makhuea.

Thai officials said the repatriation was in line with international humanitarian principles. "This is a way to honor fallen soldiers, regardless of which side they are on, demonstrating honor and dignity, and understanding the feelings of soldiers serving their countries in conflict situations," a Thai official said.

Thai soldiers bring the bodies of Cambodian soldiers to the Chong Sangam border crossing. _Photo: Khaosod_

The Royal Thai Armed Forces also accused Cambodia of continuing to use BM-21 multiple rocket launchers to attack Thailand. The Royal Thai Air Force then dispatched two flights of F-16 fighter jets to bomb the Ta Moan Thom - Ta Kwai area on the border with Cambodia.

"The mission to support the infantry has been completed, and all aircraft have returned to base safely," the Royal Thai Armed Forces said.

Cambodian officials have not commented on the reports.

Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand escalated from 23/7, with fighting breaking out near the Ta Moan Thom temple on the morning of 24/7 and later spreading to other areas along the border. Forces from both sides have repeatedly exchanged heavy artillery fire, each accusing the other of firing first.

This is the most serious clash between the two neighbors in over 10 years, resulting in a total of 33 deaths on both sides. The fighting also forced more than 138,000 people to evacuate from border areas in Thailand and 80,000 Cambodians to flee their homes.

Thai F-16 fighter jets during a training exercise. _Photo: Royal Thai Air Force_

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan announced today that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will meet in Kuala Lumpur on 28/7 to discuss the conflict. The Thai government later issued a statement confirming that Phumtham will lead a delegation to Kuala Lumpur, while Cambodia has not yet commented.

Nguyen Tien (_Khaosod, AFP, AP_)