Clashes broke out this morning, July 24, along the Thailand-Cambodia border at several key flashpoints, including the Ta Mone Thom and Ta Krabey temples, the Mom Bei area, and near the Preah Vihear Temple, according to the Phnom Penh Post.

Cambodian authorities have said Thai military forces initiated hostilities, following a Thai army's announcement yesterday regarding the activation of the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat military strategy”.

Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that Thai troops had launched coordinated assaults on Cambodian military positions located at Ta Mone Thom and Ta Krabey, both situated in Oddar Meanchey province. The offensive was reportedly extended to the Mom Bei region.

“Cambodia has consistently pursued peaceful means of resolving disputes, but in light of this armed aggression, we are left with no alternative but to respond with force,” the Prime Minister stated via his official social media channel.

He went on to say that the Royal Government of Cambodia, together with relevant ministries, provincial administrations and the country’s armed forces, is actively engaged in defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also emphasised that efforts are being made to support civilians impacted by the conflict, both through military operations and diplomatic channels.

Senate President Hun Sen corroborated the account, indicating that the Thai military's actions followed their order, issued on July 24, to shut access to the Ta Mone Thom Temple on July 24, a move that preceded their attacks on Cambodian positions.

“Our armed forces are compelled to defend and retaliate. I call on our citizens not to panic, stockpile rice or other essentials, or drive up prices. Daily life should continue as normal across the country, apart from the border zones of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear, which remain under Thai assault,” Hun Sen wrote on social media.

Both Hun Manet and Hun Sen urged the public to place their trust in the Cambodian government and its armed forces.

“Remain calm and maintain your daily routines,” Hun Sen advised.

Meanwhile, Thai PBS World reported that the Thai military has formally launched the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat strategy” in response to tensions with Cambodia, citing a recent incident in which a Thai soldier lost a leg due to a landmine explosion in the Chong An Ma pass.

The strategy, originally employed during the border clashes from 2008 to 2011 centred around Preah Vihear Temple, appears to have been reactivated in the wake of renewed hostilities.

Cambodian journalist Soy Sopheap, reporting from the conflict zone, stated that Thailand deployed six F-16 fighter jets to conduct airstrikes. He also reported claims from the Cambodian military that one of the jets was successfully shot down.