14 People Dead, Over 100,000 Evacuated as Thailand Cambodia Border Conflict Escalates
Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have intensified with deadly clashes for a second consecutive day, leaving at least 14 people dead and forcing over 100,000 civilians to evacuate.
The renewed violence stems from a century-old territorial dispute along the 800-kilometre border, particularly near ancient religious sites whose ownership is contested by both nations. The border was originally demarcated during French colonial rule in Cambodia.
Fighting reportedly began around 4:30 am on Friday, with Cambodian forces allegedly initiating fire. Thailand responded with artillery and F-16 airstrikes targeting Cambodian positions. Heavy fighting was reported in Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces, while over 4,000 Cambodians have also been displaced.
Cambodia accused Thailand of using cluster munitions, a claim yet to be addressed by Thai officials. A recent landmine blast injuring five Thai soldiers and an earlier May skirmish in the Emerald Triangle region have further inflamed tensions.
Thailand’s military, significantly larger and better equipped, has taken a more aggressive stance, deploying drones and air power. Meanwhile, political instability in Thailand—marked by the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra—has added to the uncertainty.
International calls for restraint have been issued by both China and the United States, but the border remains volatile with no signs of immediate resolution.
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