Cambodia Demands Ceasefire Amid Fierce Border Clashes
Neighbors Exchange Heavy Fire for Second Day; Thailand Open to Talks
Cambodia has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with Thailand following two days of intense border fighting. The escalating conflict, which has involved artillery, tanks, and ground troops, prompted an emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Escalating Violence and Casualties
Heavy artillery fire was audible from the Cambodian side of the border on Friday. Oddar Meanchey province reported the death of a 70-year-old civilian and injuries to five others. Meanwhile, Thailand’s health ministry stated that over 138,000 people have been evacuated from its border regions. The Thai casualties include 15 fatalities—14 civilians and one soldier—and 46 wounded, among them 15 troops.
Fighting reignited early Friday in three sectors, with Cambodian forces reportedly employing heavy weapons, artillery, and rocket systems. Thai troops responded with “appropriate supporting fire,” according to the Thai army.
Diplomatic Overtures and War Concerns
Despite the ongoing hostilities, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated openness to diplomatic discussions, potentially with Malaysia’s mediation. “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,” stated spokesman **Nikorndej Balankura** to AFP, prior to the UN meeting. Malaysia currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which both nations are members.
Earlier, acting Thai Prime Minister **Phumtham Wechayachai** cautioned that the situation could devolve into war if it continued to escalate, though he characterized the current events as “limited to clashes.”
Disputed History and UN Involvement
Both nations have accused each other of initiating the hostilities. Thailand also alleged that Cambodia targeted civilian infrastructure, including a hospital and a petrol station.
At the UN Security Council, Cambodia’s ambassador challenged Thailand’s claim that Phnom Penh started 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,” said Ambassador **Chhea Keo**.
The UN Security Council members reportedly urged both sides to exercise restraint and pursue a peaceful resolution.
Long-Standing Border Dispute
This violent outbreak marks a significant intensification of a long-standing territorial dispute along their shared 800-kilometer border. Disputed territories have been the flashpoint for previous clashes between 2008 and 2011, which resulted in at least 28 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands.
A 2013 ruling by a UN court had seemingly settled the dispute for over a decade. However, tensions flared anew in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a fresh confrontation. Thursday’s fighting concentrated on six areas, including sites near ancient temples, according to the Thai army.
In the Cambodian town of Samraong, approximately 20 kilometers from the border, journalists observed families fleeing their homes with belongings amidst the sounds of gunfire. “I live very close to the border. We are scared,” said **Pro Bak**, 41, who was evacuating his family to a Buddhist temple for safety.