Thai and Cambodian forces engaged in armed conflict, prompting evacuations of thai residents from their homes.The clashes occurred near the border,with reports of airstrikes conducted by Thai forces using F-16 jets and drones.
Neither Thailand nor Cambodia is a signatory to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a treaty that prohibits the use of such weapons. Thai authorities previously employed cluster munitions during a border dispute with Cambodia in February 2011, an incident that resulted in 20 fatalities.
Human Rights Watch has expressed concern over the disregard for international humanitarian law by both nations, highlighting the detrimental impact on civilians. The organization urged that diplomatic efforts prioritize the safety of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The report was contributed to by Associated Press writers Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul and Grant Peck in Bangkok, Eileen Ng in Kuala Lumpur, and Sopheng Cheang, who reported from Oddar Meanchey, Cambodia.