Second Day of Intensified Fighting
On the second consecutive day of intense border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia, hostilities have erupted across at least 12 disputed locations, marking the most severe escalation in over a decade. The clashes were triggered after Thailand accused Cambodia of laying landmines that injured Thai soldiers, followed by mutual artillery exchanges and airstrikes.
Massive Civilian Evacuations
Thai authorities report that over 130,000 civilians have been evacuated from border provinces including Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, and Buriram. Evacuees are being sheltered in fortified facilities equipped with sandbags and tire barricades. In Cambodia, local officials estimate around 1,500 families have been moved from frontline areas.
Human Cost Mounts
The Thai Health Ministry confirmed 15 deaths, including 14 civilians and one soldier, with 46 injuries—among them 15 military personnel. Fatalities include children; an 8-year-old boy was among those killed in Sisaket province when a Cambodian rocket struck a gas station. Cambodia reported at least one civilian death and five individuals wounded
Heavy Weaponry and Aerial Strikes
The Thai military charged that Cambodian forces used BM‑21 rocket systems and heavy field artillery to bombard civilian areas. Thailand responded with F‑16 fighter jets, conducting airstrikes against Cambodian military targets near the disputed border. Cambodian authorities accused Thailand of deploying cluster munitions and violating international law.
Leaders Warn of War
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated the situation “could develop to the stage of war” if unchecked, while expressing determination to defend national sovereignty. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has endorsed a ceasefire proposal by Malaysia and appealed to the U.N. Security Council to intervene, condemning Thailand’s actions as unilateral aggression.
Regional and Diplomatic Fallout
In response to the escalating violence, both nations have recalled their ambassadors and severed diplomatic channels. ASEAN chair Malaysia, as well as the U.S., China, and the U.N., have urged immediate de-escalation and civilian protection. Travel advisories have been issued by multiple countries, including the U.K. Foreign Office.
Historical Context Reignites
This confrontation revives longstanding tensions rooted in colonial-era demarcation issues, particularly disputes over cultural sites like Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples, where fighting has now intensified.
What Lies Ahead
- Emergency Security Council meeting convened in New York to address the escalation and consider mediation.
- Both militaries remain on high alert, and Thailand is rejecting third-party mediation, intending to seek a bilateral resolution.
- International pressure mounts to enforce a decisive ceasefire and open negotiations toward de-escalation.
Final Take
The border clash between Thailand and Cambodia has spiraled into a humanitarian crisis, claiming lives and uprooting over 130,000 civilians. With heavy weaponry now in use and diplomatic channels severed, the region faces a volatile stand-off where any misstep could deepen conflict. International intervention may yet shape whether this escalation ends in diplomacy or further confrontation.
