Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified for a second day, contributing to the deaths of at least 16 people and forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes. The conflict erupted on Thursday in a disputed border area, heightening tensions between the two nations, which have a long-standing territorial disagreement dating back over a century.
In Thailand, the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani and Surin have reported numerous injuries, with over 100,000 civilians displaced. In Cambodia, authorities evacuated around 1,500 families from Oddar Meanchey province.
Leaders from various nations, including Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, have urged for an immediate ceasefire. Anwar expressed hope for a peaceful resolution on social media, highlighting positive signals from both sides.
Official reports from Thailand indicate that 14 civilians and one soldier have died, while Cambodia has confirmed at least one civilian casualty. The US and China have expressed deep concern over the violence, joining other nations like Australia and the European Union in calling for an end to hostilities.
Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet has urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene, accusing Thailand of aggression. Both countries have blamed each other as the aggressor, sparking the recent clashes, which were triggered by drone surveillance and troop movements near a Khmer-Hindu temple.
The skirmishes mark a significant downturn in relations between Thailand and Cambodia, which have seen sporadic conflict over their border throughout history. This latest round of violence follows a fatal encounter in May, pushing diplomatic ties to a new low.
