Phlan Hin Paet Kon in Sisaket Province is a crucial strategic site where Cambodia launched a fresh assault on Thailand. The wide rocky plateau had been extensively mined with landmines before Thai soldiers began clearance operations. Thailand had planned to build a road and develop the area into a tourist destination, but these plans were shelved following the new attacks.
The renewed clash between Thai and Cambodian forces at Phu Pha Lek–Phlan Hin Paet Kon in Sisaket Province today (7 Dec 2025 GMT+7) began at 2 p.m. and lasted nearly an hour before subsiding. Two Thai soldiers were wounded—one shot in the leg and another whose bulletproof vest was struck leaving bruises. The Second Army commander ordered evacuation of residents near the border in four provinces: Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani for safety.
Phlan Hin Paet Kon in Sisaket Province is a wide rocky area rich in natural beauty and had been planned for development as a tourist site in Thailand.
Lieutenant General Weerayut Raksin, the Second Army commander, who led a news team to the area late last year, said that Phlan Hin Paet Kon lies within Thai territory according to local residents. Previously, Cambodia had laid many landmines there. Early in his career as a junior officer, he participated in mine clearance operations for years and deployed forces to control this area.
Last year, he discussed with military commanders the natural beauty of the area, which features rock flats suitable for camping and parking. Plans were made to coordinate with provincial and National Park officials to develop this spot into a tourist attraction by building a road and stationing soldiers to enable shared use by all parties.
Phlan Hin Paet Kon is a key strategic point along the Thailand-Cambodia border due mainly to its geographical features and the ability to observe the surrounding area.
Geographical Features and Strategic Reasons
Elevated Location: Phlan Hin Paet Kon is situated on high ground, allowing those controlling it to see far and wide. This provides a significant military advantage for surveillance, monitoring enemy movements, and tactical planning.
Part of the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range: This area forms part of the Phanom Dong Rak mountains, a natural border between Thailand and Cambodia, making it a frequent flashpoint for disputes and clashes between the two countries.
Phlan Hin Paet Kon's distinctive feature is its high hill composed of eight large stones arranged side by side (as the name suggests), making it an effective observation post and stronghold.