Renewed fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has erupted along their disputed border, with both militaries exchanging ground fire and airstrikes as casualties mount and thousands of civilians flee their homes.

Thai authorities report that Cambodian forces have penetrated into Trat province, prompting Thai operations to expel them — including F-16 air-strikes against what Bangkok described as enemy military positions.

Meanwhile Cambodia says it has suffered civilian deaths and calls for a ceasefire.

At least one Thai soldier has been killed and 18 wounded, while Cambodian officials report civilian deaths overnight, bringing their toll to six.

The violence has forced massive displacement: Thai authorities say some 438,000 people have fled from border-adjacent areas, while Cambodian government figures suggest even larger numbers displaced within its territory.

This latest flare-up shatters a fragile ceasefire brokered in July under pressure from international mediators.

Both Bangkok and Phnom Penh blame each other for initiating the fighting.

Thai military leaders claim Cambodian forces used heavy weapons, entrenched positions, and sniper cover — moves they say violated Thai sovereignty and required defensive action.

Cambodian leaders, including their Senate president, insist their forces acted only in self-defence and warn the conflict could broaden.

Analysts warn that the intensity and scale of the clashes mark the worst outbreak since the July truce, raising regional concern about a protracted border war with far-reaching humanitarian consequences.

International calls are mounting for renewed mediation and de-escalation efforts as civilians bear the brunt of the renewed hostility.