Cambodia Accuses Thailand of War Crimes
Tensions on the Thailand-Cambodia border are surging again. Cambodia accuses Thailand of war crimes after deadly airstrikes and artillery attacks. Cambodian officials say the Thai military launched air raids at seven sites inside their territory.
The strikes began at 8:46 a.m. on Thursday and reportedly involved F-16 fighter jets. Cluster munitions and heavy weapons were also allegedly used in the assault.
“These attacks are brutal and inhumane,” said Lieutenant General Maly Socheata. “They breach international laws, including the ban on cluster munitions.”
There’s no immediate response from the Thai military. The UK’s Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance, advising against travel near the conflict zones.
Travel Warnings and Closed Borders
The UK, US, Australia, and New Zealand now advise travelers to avoid affected areas. In Cambodia, the warning covers a 50km radius near the border, including the provinces of Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey. Key sites like the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples are closed.
Thailand issued similar alerts for Buriram, Surin, Si Saket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. Land border crossings between the two countries are now suspended.
Authorities also warn about unexploded landmines in the region. Tourists are urged to stay alert and follow official safety advice.
Mass evacuations are ongoing. Thai officials report evacuating 138,000 civilians. Cambodia says over 4,000 displaced in Oddar Meanchey province alone.
A Deepening Crisis Rooted in History
Experts warn that the Cambodia-Thailand conflict could spiral. The dispute dates back over a century to poorly marked colonial borders.
Recent flashpoints include a deadly May skirmish and a leaked call between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s ex-leader Hun Sen. Ties between the two nations have since deteriorated sharply.
On Wednesday, Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador. Fighting has since escalated from gunfire to heavy shelling.
Cambodia wants the International Court of Justice to intervene, but Thailand has resisted. With nationalism and political pressure rising, this crisis could worsen fast.
