The provided text describes an escalation of fighting between Thailand and Cambodia along their shared border. Here’s a breakdown of the key information:
The Conflict:
Resumption of Fighting: Fighting re-erupted before dawn on Friday (local time) with clashes reported in 12 locations, an increase from the previous day.
Allegations of “Barbaric Acts”: Thailand accused Cambodia of using artillery and Russian-made BM-21 rockets to attack civilian areas, including schools and hospitals. They labeled these actions as “barbaric acts” and a “war crime.”
Blame Placed on Cambodia: Thailand squarely blamed the Phnom Penh government, stating it was being steered by former premier Hun Sen.
Thai Military response: Thai military convoys, including trucks, armored vehicles, and tanks, were seen moving towards the border. Artillery guns were observed being loaded and fired. Thailand also deployed an F-16 fighter jet to strike a Cambodian military target.
Cambodian Claims: Cambodia alleged that Thailand’s bombardments caused “significant and visible damage” to the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They also expressed outrage at Thailand’s alleged use of cluster munitions, calling it a violation of international law.
Trigger for Conflict: The conflict was triggered by Thailand recalling its ambassador to Phnom Penh and expelling Cambodia’s envoy after a second Thai soldier lost a limb to a landmine, which Bangkok alleged was recently laid by Cambodian troops. Cambodia denied this.
Casualties and Evacuations:
Thai Casualties: The death toll in Thailand rose to 19, with 13 of them civilians. 62 people were wounded.
Cambodian Casualties: Cambodia’s government had not reported any casualties, but a provincial official stated one person had been killed.
Evacuations: Thailand prepared nearly 300 facilities for evacuees, with more people seeking shelter in Surin province due to the shelling.Evacuees described being scared by the loud explosions.
Military Disparity:
The text notes that Cambodia has no fighter aircraft and substantially less defense hardware and personnel compared to Thailand.International Involvement:
Cambodia has urged the UN Security Council to address what it calls Thailand’s “unprovoked military aggression.”
Key Locations mentioned:
Chachoengsao province (where the photo was taken)
Surin province (Thailand)
Preah Vihear temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
the situation is tense and escalating, with both sides accusing each other of aggression and violations of international law.
