**Breaking News: Thailand Launches Airstrikes on Cambodian Military Targets Amid Escalating Tensions**

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Thailand’s military has launched airstrikes against Cambodian military positions, marking a significant intensification of conflict along their disputed border. Reports confirm that two Cambodian battalions—Battalion 8 and Battalion 9—have been destroyed by Thai F-16 fighter jets, as the situation spirals into violence after both nations downgraded their diplomatic relations.

The Thai military confirmed the deployment of six F-16 jets, with one of the aircraft reportedly engaging Cambodian forces directly. This aggressive move follows a series of exchanges of fire, including an incident earlier today where at least one person was killed and three others wounded when Cambodia fired BM21 rockets into a civilian area in Surin province, prompting outrage from Thai officials who condemned the attack as a blatant assault on civilians.

As civilian casualties mount, residents in the affected areas are frantically seeking shelter in makeshift bunkers, fearing further bombardments. The Thai government has urged its citizens in Cambodia to return home immediately, underscoring the urgency of the deteriorating situation.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister has called for caution, emphasizing the need to adhere to international law as gunfire continues to erupt along contested border areas. Meanwhile, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has denounced Thai military aggression, accusing them of targeting Cambodian military installations near ancient temples.

With both nations locked in a bitter dispute over the Emerald Triangle region, where their borders intersect with Laos, tensions have been simmering for years, occasionally flaring into violence. The situation remains precarious as the international community watches closely, with China advising its citizens against travel to the volatile border areas.

As developments unfold, the potential for further conflict looms large, raising urgent questions about stability in the region. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to evolve.