Deadly Border Clashes Escalate Between Thailand and Cambodia

Thailand-Cambodia Border Erupts in Deadly Conflict

Deadly fighting has erupted along the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia, with at least 14 people, including 13 civilians and one Thai soldier, confirmed killed in Thailand. Over 100,000 civilians have been displaced on both sides of the border as the conflict, which began early Thursday near the disputed Ta Moan Thom Temple, rapidly escalated into fierce exchanges of bombing, shelling, and even F-16 airstrikes by Thailand.

Both Thailand and Cambodia are blaming each other for initiating the violence. The Thai health ministry has condemned Cambodian actions, including an alleged attack near a hospital and a rocket strike on a petrol station that killed six civilians, as potential war crimes.

The recent escalation follows weeks of heightened tension, including a landmine blast that injured Thai soldiers and led to both nations recalling and expelling ambassadors. Thailand has since closed all land border crossings and urged its citizens to leave Cambodia.

The long-standing border dispute, particularly around ancient temples like Ta Moan Thom and Preah Vihear, has roots in colonial-era maps and differing interpretations of international court rulings. While Cambodia has sought international mediation, including requesting an emergency UN Security Council session and filing a new complaint with the International Court of Justice, Thailand has expressed a preference for bilateral talks and has rejected third-party mediation at this time.

The conflict has also had domestic political ramifications in Thailand, with the acting Prime Minister now leading the response after the Prime Minister was suspended amid an ethics probe linked to the crisis.