Heavy Fighting Pushes Region to Brink
Thailand warns clashes with Cambodia could grow into full-scale war, following intense fighting at 12 border points. The conflict has already killed at least 16 people and displaced thousands on both sides.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed the use of heavy weapons and widespread attacks. Thai forces claim Cambodia targeted civilian areas with rockets, forcing mass evacuations from nearby villages.
In response, Cambodia accused Thailand of using banned cluster munitions, which harm civilians indiscriminately. Thailand has not addressed this allegation. Both sides blame each other for starting the conflict.
Global Appeals for Ceasefire Ignored
Despite international concern, Thailand refuses third-party mediation. Malaysia’s Prime Minister offered to mediate talks as ASEAN chair. Thailand declined, insisting the matter be solved directly with Cambodia.
Thai foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura stressed that Cambodia must stop its attacks first. Meanwhile, Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet called on the UN to stop what he calls “Thailand’s aggression.”
The United States, China, Australia, and France have urged peace and an immediate ceasefire. The United Nations Security Council is set to discuss the crisis.
Border Communities Bear the Brunt
Violence near Thailand’s Surin province forced families to flee to temporary shelters. Many evacuees, including children and the elderly, described traumatic scenes of rocket fire and artillery blasts.
Some elderly survivors compared this violence to the Cambodian Civil War, calling it the worst in decades. Joi Phasuwan, from Phanom Dong Rak, said she and her grandchildren were finally evacuated after waiting in fear.
As the Thailand warns clashes with Cambodia conflict deepens, the risk of regional instability continues to rise.
