Bangkok: Tensions have flared once again along the Thailand-Cambodia border, reigniting hostilities between the two nations. Recent clashes have resulted in fatalities among Thai soldiers and injuries to civilians, while Cambodia has also accused Thai forces of cross-border attacks.
Despite a ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S. President during a summit in South Korea, hostilities resumed, and both sides are exchanging accusations over the recent confrontations. According to Surasak Kongsiri, spokesperson for the Thai Ministry of Defence, the latest clashes have claimed the lives of nine Thai soldiers, with over 120 others injured.
Mass Displacement of Civilians
The fighting has displaced nearly 200,000 Thai civilians, who have sought refuge in camps. Surasak reported that three refugees have died so far, and a total of 849 refugee camps have been established. On the Cambodian side, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that at least 10 civilians, including a child, were killed, and 60 others injured in the renewed border skirmishes.
Lieutenant General Mali Socheta, Deputy Secretary and spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry, stated, “The clashes restarted on Sunday afternoon and continued until Thursday morning, with Thai forces firing artillery shells into Cambodian territory. Both nations’ navies have now entered the conflict, escalating the intensity of the clashes.”
Fighting Extends from Land to Sea
The ongoing confrontation has impacted nearly 200 hospitals and clinics across the affected regions. Thailand’s Second Army Area Command reported on social media that clashes are still ongoing, with Cambodian forces firing into Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani and Sisaket provinces. Analysts warn that the expanding conflict could drag on for an extended period, further destabilizing the border region.
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