In a significant escalation of the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, air strikes targeted Cambodian military positions following a flurry of rocket and artillery fire that tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 11 civilians. This alarming turn of events has exacerbated tensions over the disputed territory known as the Emerald Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge, home to numerous ancient temples.
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The roots of this dispute run deep, dating back decades and having flared into violent confrontations more than 15 years ago. The most recent significant clash occurred in May when a Cambodian soldier lost his life in a firefight. Today’s conflict saw Cambodia launching rockets and artillery shells into Thailand, prompting the Thai military to deploy F-16 jets for retaliatory air strikes.
On the ground, reports indicate smoke billowing from the roof of a shop attached to a petrol station, where numerous victims, including students, were caught in the crossfire.
In the chaotic moments near the border, Thai residents were seen fleeing amidst the gunfire. Witness accounts emphasized the urgent need for resolve in the region, echoing sentiments of both peace and protection.
Thai air force jets, based in Ubon Ratchathani province, reportedly targeted two military installations in Cambodia. Both nations have accused each other of instigating the violence. A spokesperson from Cambodia’s defense ministry labeled the Thai actions as an “armed assault on Cambodian forces,” asserting that Cambodian troops were simply exercising their right to self-defense under international law.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for an emergency session of the UN Security Council, which his foreign ministry described as a response to “unprovoked military aggression.” On the other hand, a spokesperson for Thailand characterized Cambodia’s actions as “inhumane, brutal and war-hungry,” announcing the closure of all border crossings and the evacuation of residents from surrounding areas.
The Thai military claims it was Cambodian soldiers who initiated the firing, further asserting that the assault amounted to a “targeted attack on civilians” resulting in injuries among residents in Surin’s Kap Choeng district. Tensions reportedly escalated around 7:35 am, when a unit guarding the Ta Muen temple detected a Cambodian drone overhead. Notably, as per Thai military reports, armed Cambodian soldiers approached the border, leading to a skirmish.
“The situation requires careful handling, and we must act in accordance with international law,” stated Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. “We will do our best to protect our sovereignty.” Amidst the unfolding crisis, Thailand’s embassy in Phnom Penh has advised its citizens to leave Cambodia swiftly unless their stay is essential.
China, a close ally of Cambodia, expressed deep concern over the clashes and has called for dialogue and restraint. The recent violence came on the heels of Thailand’s expulsion of the Cambodian ambassador and a reciprocal withdrawal of the Thai envoy, following an earlier incident where five Thai soldiers were injured by a landmine.
In a notable diplomatic shift, Cambodia has announced plans to downgrade its diplomatic ties with Thailand, withdrawing nearly all diplomats except one and expelling the remaining Thai representatives from Phnom Penh. Recent weeks have seen escalating tensions manifest in a series of reciprocal sanctions, including travel restrictions and import halts.
This border dispute has also sparked a domestic political crisis in Thailand, where Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been suspended from office pending an ethics investigation into her conduct. In response, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged both nations to “stand down” and resume diplomatic talks, emphasizing the need for dialogue amidst escalating tensions. Malaysia, currently chairing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), remains vigilant in its role as a facilitator for peace in the region.
