Thailand’s use of airpower against Cambodia is widely seen as disproportionate and controversial. Thailand argues it is acting in self‑defence after border incidents, but Cambodia and international observers stress that Cambodia has no comparable air force, making the strikes an escalation that risks civilian lives and cultural heritage.

📌 Thailand’s Justification

• Thai officials claim the airstrikes are defensive, launched after Cambodian forces allegedly planted landmines and attacked Thai positions.
• The Thai Prime Minister stated operations would continue “as necessary to defend the country and protect public safety”.
• Bangkok frames the strikes as part of protecting the Gulf of Thailand and securing disputed border zones.

⚠️ Criticism and Concerns

• Cambodia’s position: Phnom Penh accuses Thailand of aggression, saying the strikes deliberately hit civilian areas, including shelters for displaced people and infrastructure in Siem Reap province.
• Civilian casualties: Reports confirm at least five civilians killed in early strikes, with the toll rising to around 20–25 overall.
• Imbalance of power: Cambodia has no modern airpower, relying on ground forces, making Thailand’s use of fighter jets a one‑sided escalation.
• International reaction: Observers warn the strikes undermine ceasefire efforts and risk turning border clashes into full‑scale war.

✨ Assessment

• Legally and ethically, Thailand’s justification is contested. While states have the right to self‑defence, the scale and targets of the airstrikes—deep inside Cambodian territory, near civilian shelters and UNESCO heritage sites—raise serious proportionality concerns.
• Strategically, airpower gives Thailand overwhelming dominance, but it risks international condemnation and long‑term instability.
• Humanitarian impact: With over 800,000 Cambodians displaced, the strikes worsen a crisis that already threatens regional stability.

🔮 Outlook

Unless mediated by ASEAN or external powers, Thailand’s reliance on airpower is likely to prolong the conflict. Cambodia cannot respond in kind, meaning the imbalance will continue to fuel accusations of unjustified aggression.