Cambodia Says 10 Civilians Killed, 60 Others Wounded in Latest Round of Border Conflict with Thailand
Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border have escalated once again, with at least 10 Cambodian civilians confirmed dead and 60 others injured, following renewed military clashes between the two countries. According to a press briefing by Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, the casualties include an infant among the 10 fatalities, while many of the 60 injured are reportedly in critical condition.
The violence, which erupted on Sunday afternoon, shows no signs of abating, with the Cambodian Defence Ministry confirming that artillery shells fired by the Thai army have hit multiple locations in Cambodian territory. The conflict, which has rekindled long-standing tensions, has led to widespread displacement and suffering along the border.
Increased Military Clashes Since Sunday
The latest round of violence has forced many civilians in the affected regions to flee their homes. Lt. Gen. Socheata confirmed that the fighting, which has intensified over the past few days, continues to unfold. As of Thursday morning, clashes were still ongoing, with reports of heavy shelling and small arms fire exchanged between the Cambodian and Thai military forces.
“The casualties included 10 civilian fatalities, including one infant, and 60 civilian injuries,” Socheata stated, adding that many of the wounded have been rushed to nearby medical facilities for urgent care. Cambodian authorities have condemned the Thai military’s actions, calling the use of artillery against civilian areas “unprovoked” and “disproportionate.”
Mass Displacement Amid Rising Violence
In response to the escalating violence, Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior issued a statement on Wednesday night confirming that over 56,000 families, or approximately 190,000 civilians, have fled their homes in fear of further attacks. These displaced families have sought refuge in nearby shelters, many of which are overcrowded and lacking basic necessities.
“The Ministry is doing everything it can to provide immediate relief to those affected,” the press release stated. “Humanitarian assistance, including food, water, and medical aid, is being coordinated by various government agencies and NGOs.”
Long-Standing Tensions at the Cambodia-Thailand Border
The Cambodia-Thailand border has long been a flashpoint for conflict, with disputes over land, resources, and territorial claims stretching back for decades. Both countries have had a history of military skirmishes along the border, particularly in areas near the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the past, border disputes have sparked deadly confrontations, with casualties on both sides. However, the latest flare-up comes at a time when both nations have been working to improve diplomatic relations, making the renewed violence even more alarming.
International Reactions and Calls for Restraint
The international community has expressed concern over the ongoing conflict, with calls for both sides to exercise restraint and return to the negotiating table. The United Nations and several humanitarian organizations have urged both Cambodia and Thailand to protect civilian lives and ensure that all parties respect international law.
“It is crucial that both governments prioritize the safety and well-being of their citizens,” said a spokesperson for the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). “We strongly urge both sides to engage in dialogue and seek a peaceful resolution to avoid further loss of life and displacement.”
The Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
As the conflict drags on, the humanitarian situation in the affected areas has worsened. With over 190,000 people displaced and many more at risk, the need for urgent aid has never been greater. Humanitarian organizations have mobilized to provide shelter, food, water, and medical care to those fleeing the violence.
The Cambodian government has also set up emergency response teams to assist in the relocation and support of displaced families. The Ministry of Health has sent medical teams to treat the wounded, while the Ministry of Social Affairs is coordinating relief efforts in refugee camps along the border.
Looking Ahead: Will Diplomacy Prevail?
As the situation continues to unfold, questions remain about how Cambodia and Thailand will manage their long-standing border dispute moving forward. While the two nations have historically been at odds over territorial claims, both have expressed a commitment to resolving the issue through diplomacy.
However, the latest outbreak of violence has made it clear that the road to peace remains fragile. International pressure is likely to mount on both sides to de-escalate the conflict and ensure the protection of civilians in the region.
Conclusion
The ongoing conflict along the Cambodia-Thailand border has caused significant civilian casualties and widespread displacement, creating an urgent humanitarian crisis. With at least 10 dead and 60 wounded, the latest round of violence underscores the volatility of the region’s border disputes. As both sides continue to exchange fire, the international community is watching closely, calling for an immediate end to the hostilities and a return to peaceful dialogue. The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear when—or if—diplomatic efforts will succeed in bringing an end to the bloodshed.
