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Deadly clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have erupted along their disputed border, killing at least 11 civilians and one Thai soldier, with dozens more injured, as tensions spiral into the worst confrontation in over a decade.
The violence began early Thursday near the ancient Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear temples, located in contested territory.
According to Thailand’s Ministry of defense, Cambodian troops opened fire after deploying a drone, prompting retaliatory airstrikes and artillery shelling by Thai forces. Cambodia claims its soldiers acted in self-defense against an unprovoked Thai incursion.
The conflict follows months of escalating tension, worsened by a May skirmish that killed a Cambodian soldier. Nationalist sentiments have since grown, pushing both nations to bolster troops and weaponry along the 508-mile (817 km) border.
Civilians Flee, Schools and Hospitals Closed
Residents on both sides are fleeing border villages. Over 582 schools have been shut in Thailand’s Surin, Sisaket, and Buriram provinces. Hospitals near the fighting zones are evacuating patients, while some parks and sanctuaries have been turned into military bases.
Diplomatic Fallout and Regional Concerns
Diplomatic ties have collapsed. Cambodia downgraded relations and expelled the Thai ambassador, mirroring Thailand’s move following landmine blasts that injured Thai soldiers. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has requested an urgent UN Security Council meeting.
China and the US have urged restraint, while Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, is attempting to mediate. Analysts warn of deepening hostilities amid weak political leadership in both countries and personal tensions between political dynasties.
Historical Dispute Reignites
The border row stems from colonial-era maps and was reignited in 2008 when Cambodia sought UNESCO status for the Preah Vihear temple. Sporadic violence has since plagued the region.
Despite calls for peace, both sides remain entrenched, raising fears of further escalation.
(Sources: CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera)
