Thailand and Cambodia engaged in intense artillery exchanges for a second consecutive day, marking the deadliest border clashes between the two nations in over a decade. Despite urgent calls from regional and global leaders for a ceasefire, fighting persisted, leaving at least 16 people dead. Thailand’s military reported that Cambodian forces used heavy weapons, including Russian-made BM-21 rocket systems, prompting retaliatory strikes. Authorities confirmed the evacuation of 100,000 Thai civilians from conflict zones as shelling spread across multiple disputed areas.
Accusations and Escalation
Both sides have accused each other of initiating the conflict, which began Thursday near contested border regions. What started as small-arms fire quickly escalated into large-scale artillery duels across at least six locations spanning 209 km. Thailand’s military stated it responded with “appropriate supporting fire,” while Cambodia dismissed Thai claims of recent landmine deployments as baseless. The fighting intensified after Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia’s envoy following a landmine incident that severely injured a Thai soldier.
Rising Casualties and Military Moves
Thailand’s health ministry reported 15 deaths—14 civilians and one soldier—with 46 others wounded. Cambodia acknowledged one civilian death and five injuries, along with the evacuation of 1,500 families. In a significant escalation, Thailand deployed six F-16 fighter jets, one of which conducted a strike on a Cambodian military target. Cambodia, lacking an air force, condemned the move as “reckless aggression,” highlighting the stark military imbalance between the two nations.
International Calls for Peace
The U.S., a longtime ally of Thailand, urged an immediate end to hostilities and protection of civilians. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, chair of ASEAN, offered mediation, citing positive signals from both nations. As tensions simmer, the century-old border dispute remains unresolved, raising concerns of further violence. The international community continues to push for dialogue to prevent further bloodshed in the region.