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First Army Region Summarizes Intense Clashes on Sa Kaeo Border, Cambodian Troops Armed in Poipet Area

Local17 Dec 2025 18:29 GMT+7

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First Army Region Summarizes Intense Clashes on Sa Kaeo Border, Cambodian Troops Armed in Poipet Area

The First Army Region summarized the Sa Kaeo border situation on the 10th day in three areas: Khlong Phaeng in Ta Phraya district, Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, and Ban Nong Jan in Khok Sung district. Heavy fighting continues with Cambodian forces resisting by continuously firing BM-21 rocket launchers, artillery, and grenade launchers. On the Poipet side, Thai people are still waiting in vain, but Cambodian soldiers armed with weapons were found in the area.

Update on the Thai-Cambodian border situation on 17 December 2025: The First Army Region Operations Center summarized the border situation in Sa Kaeo province as of 18:00 on 17 December 2025.

The Burapha Task Force has been protecting sovereignty amid the Thai-Cambodian conflict for the 10th day, with heavy fighting to control territory as follows.

In the Khlong Phaeng area of Ta Phraya district, our forces employed strategies and supporting fire weapons to seize and control the open terrain. Cambodian forces held defensive positions and continuously fired BM-21 rocket launchers, artillery, and grenade launchers.

In Ban Nong Ya Kaeo area of Khok Sung district, our forces used strategies and supporting fire weapons to seize and control the area. Cambodian forces continued resisting with BM-21 rocket launchers, artillery, and grenade launchers, attempting to reinforce and counterattack our forces.

In Ban Nong Jan area of Khok Sung district, our forces applied strategies and supporting fire weapons to seize and control the area. Cambodian forces maintained defensive positions, continuously firing BM-21 rocket launchers, artillery, and grenade launchers.

Regarding the situation on the Poipet side in Cambodia, after Thai people were denied re-entry at the permanent crossing point at Ban Khlong Luek in Aranyaprathet district, reports confirmed the presence of armed Cambodian soldiers in the area. Additionally, on the evening of 16 December 2025, smoke and explosions were reported inside a building, which locals said might have been caused by an electrical short circuit or a gas cylinder explosion. The Burapha Task Force is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as available.

Regarding personnel casualties from the ongoing situation, today there were reports of eight additional wounded and one death: Sergeant Major Phonsak Iamsaard, from the 2nd Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, Royal Guards.

Summary of casualties from 8 December 2025 to present: 61 wounded and 4 dead. In the border areas of Sa Kaeo province across four districts, the provincial government and related agencies have opened five temporary shelters comprising 46 centers, housing a total of 19,613 people.

The First Army Region affirms its commitment to fully carry out its mission. Military operations will proceed under rules of engagement and the right to self-defense until threats along the Sa Kaeo border cease, prioritizing Thailand's sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.