Thailand and Cambodia Clash for Third Day, Death Toll Rises

Phnom Penh Calls for Immediate Ceasefire Amidst Escalating Border Violence

Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified for a third consecutive day, with the death toll now reaching 33. Phnom Penh has urgently appealed for an immediate ceasefire as the border dispute escalates into the bloodiest conflict in years.

Intense Fighting Erupts with Heavy Artillery and Jets

The border dispute ignited into intense conflict Thursday, involving fighter jets, artillery, tanks, and ground troops. This escalation prompted an emergency session of the UN Security Council on Friday to address the worsening crisis.

Cambodia’s defense ministry confirmed 13 fatalities, including eight civilians and five soldiers, with 71 individuals reported injured. Thailand’s army stated that five soldiers lost their lives on Friday, bringing their total to 20, which includes 14 civilians and six military personnel.

The combined death toll surpasses the 28 lives lost during the previous major border confrontation that spanned from 2008 to 2011.

Displacement and Diplomatic Appeals

Both nations reported a renewed clash around 5:00 a.m. Saturday. Cambodia accused Thai forces of directing five heavy artillery shells into locations within Pursat province, which directly borders Thailand’s Trat province.

The ongoing hostilities have necessitated the evacuation of over 138,000 people from Thailand’s border regions. In Cambodia, more than 35,000 residents have been displaced from their homes.

Following a closed-door meeting of the Security Council in New York, Cambodia’s UN ambassador, Chhea Keo, conveyed his country’s desire for a cessation of hostilities.

“Cambodia asked for an immediate ceasefire — unconditionally — and we also call for the peaceful solution of the dispute.”

—Chhea Keo, Cambodia’s UN Ambassador

Border Row Continues Amidst Diplomatic Offers

Previously, Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura indicated Bangkok’s willingness to engage in talks, with Malaysia potentially mediating.

“We are ready, if Cambodia would like to settle this matter via diplomatic channels, bilaterally, or even through Malaysia, we are ready to do that. But so far we have not had any response,” Nikorndej told AFP.

Malaysia currently presides over the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional bloc to which both Thailand and Cambodia belong.

Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai cautioned that the situation could escalate “into war” if not managed carefully.

Both sides have accused the other of initiating the gunfire. Thailand specifically alleged that Cambodia targeted civilian infrastructure, including a hospital struck by shells and a petrol station hit by at least one rocket.

Cambodia has countered by accusing Thai forces of employing cluster munitions.

At the UN, Chhea Keo questioned Thailand’s assertion that Cambodia, which is smaller and less militarily advanced, had instigated the conflict.

“[The Security Council] called for both parties to [show] maximum restraint and resort to a diplomatic solution. That is what we are calling for as well.”

—Chhea Keo, Cambodia’s UN Ambassador

Historical Context of the Border Dispute

This outbreak of violence marks a significant escalation in a protracted dispute between the two neighboring nations, both popular tourist destinations, concerning their shared 800-kilometer border.

Disagreements over dozens of kilometers in several areas have led to conflict previously, notably between 2008 and 2011, resulting in at least 28 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands.

A 2013 ruling by a UN court provided a resolution that lasted over a decade. However, the current crisis was reignited in May following a new clash in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.

The ongoing conflict impacts an area that, prior to the clashes, was a vibrant tourist region. For instance, Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site located near the contested border, draws significant international attention.