Border Tensions Escalate: Thai Civilians Seek Shelter Amidst Cambodian Shelling
Surin province, Thailand – Residents displaced by cross-border shelling from Cambodia are finding refuge in temporary shelters, describing the situation as a stark contrast to their former lives. One woman, speaking from a shelter in Det Udom district, ubon Ratchathani province, expressed a sense of relief despite the uncomfortable conditions. “It is not especially comfortable, but at least it is safe,” she stated, noting that she had received donated clothing and a pillow, and was registered for a blanket. “ItS better than being at home. At least here I can’t hear the blasts. At least here I have peace of mind.”
The ongoing conflict has led to significant displacement, with over 60 shelters established across Det Udom district, approximately 40 miles (60km) from the affected border areas.These shelters are located in municipality centers, schools, and temples, and their occupants are uncertain about the duration of their stay.
The economic repercussions of the clashes are also a major concern. Maneerat, who works in a flour factory that has closed due to the conflict, fears for her and her sisters’ wages. She highlighted the deep economic ties between Thailand and Cambodia, noting that cross-border trade, especially during seasonal produce availability, is common. “Cambodians and Thai people frequently enough cross over the border for business and to trade goods,” she explained, emphasizing the pleasant relations that allow Cambodian neighbors to cross frequently and even speak Thai.
Municipal workers Phusita Boottarat, 36, and Kamonwan Homsub, 27, who are managing one of the shelters, expressed shock at the rapid escalation of the situation. They recalled childhood excursions to historic border sites, never imagining these locations would become active conflict zones.
Maneerat voiced skepticism about the efficacy of negotiations and ceasefires,stating,”if they could make a deal in the first place then it wouldn’t have [escalated] into this.” Her primary recourse, she concluded, is hope.
The human cost of the conflict is mounting. In Thailand,the death toll has reached 15,with 14 civilians among the deceased. In Cambodia,one civilian was reported killed in Oddar Meanchey province,according to a local official,though a national death toll has not been released by the Cambodian government.
The conflict underscores the fragility of peace in border regions and the devastating impact of military actions on civilian populations and local economies. The displacement and disruption experienced by residents like Maneerat highlight the immediate and long-term challenges faced by communities caught in the crossfire of international disputes.
