Thailand and Cambodia are experiencing a new wave of conflict along their border, where both countries are accusing each other of attacks. This fighting has been going on for nearly three days and has led to at least 33 deaths and the displacement of over 168,000 people from their homes. As the violence escalates, there are growing calls from the international community for both sides to stop fighting.
President Trump announced that the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia, Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Prime Minister Hun Manet, have agreed to meet quickly to discuss a ceasefire, or an end to the fighting.
Reports are coming in about continuous gunfire and artillery strikes near several villages along the border. The conflict reignited after a landmine explosion injured five Thai soldiers, prompting both countries to claim they are responding to each other’s attacks. To further complicate things, both nations have recalled their ambassadors, and Thailand has closed several of its border crossings with Cambodia.
Recent information from Cambodian officials shows that 12 people have died, raising their total to 13. Thai officials also reported the death of one soldier, making their total casualties 20, which mostly includes civilians. President Trump is actively working to encourage both governments to stop the violence immediately.
“The leaders from both nations have agreed to meet right away for urgent talks to establish a ceasefire and work towards lasting peace,” the president shared on Truth Social. “Both countries have rich histories and cultures, and I hope they can live together in harmony for many years. Once we reach a resolution and secure peace, I look forward to finalizing our trade deals with both nations.”
Earlier, while in Scotland, Mr. Trump noted that the U.S. is, “by chance,” in trade discussions with both countries, but emphasized that no deals will be made until the fighting stops.
“I am trying to resolve a complex situation. The loss of lives in this war is reminiscent of the past conflict between Pakistan and India, which was ultimately resolved,” he said.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is feeling increasing pressure to help reduce the tensions between its two members. During an emergency meeting on Friday, the U.N. Security Council called for de-escalation and encouraged ASEAN to help facilitate a peaceful resolution.
The 500-mile border between Thailand and Cambodia has been a source of conflict for many years, though past clashes have often been short and manageable. The current fighting began in May after a Cambodian soldier was killed during a skirmish, causing a diplomatic crisis and affecting Thailand’s domestic politics.
Fresh attacks and rising tension
Cambodia’s Defense Ministry has expressed serious concern over what they describe as an unjustified attack from Thailand. This incident took place early Saturday when five heavy artillery shells were fired in various parts of Pursat province. Officials labeled this action as a “plotted and unprovoked act of aggression.”
Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, a spokesperson for the Ministry, stated that tensions have escalated in Koh Kong province, where they observed four Thai naval ships positioned offshore. There were also reports of four more ships heading in that direction, which she viewed as a move that could potentially escalate the conflict.
The ongoing clashes have tragically resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and five soldiers within just two days. Previously, one individual lost his life when Thai rockets struck a pagoda where he was seeking refuge.
In response to these events, the Thai army refuted claims of attacking Cambodian civilian areas and accused Cambodia of putting civilians in danger by placing weapons near homes.
Thai navy said that Cambodian forces initiated a new attack in Trat province. They claimed that their forces quickly retaliated and successfully pushed back the Cambodian troops from three key locations. Thai authorities stated that they would not tolerate such aggressive actions.
Moreover, Thai officials reported that some Cambodian artillery shells ended up landing in Laos, damaging homes and property there, although the Lao government has not yet commented on this matter.
The conflict has led to significant displacement, with many people forced to leave their homes.
Cambodia’s Information Minister Neth Pheaktra stated that the conflict has resulted in more than 10,865 families, or roughly 37,635 individuals, fleeing their homes in three border provinces in search of safety. While Thai officials said more than 131,000 people had fled their border villages.
Appeal to safeguard civilians following claims of cluster bomb usage
Human Rights Watch has urged the U.N. Security Council and various governments to pressure Thailand and Cambodia to adhere to international laws designed to protect civilians during armed conflicts. The organization recently reported that children have been adversely affected by the ongoing fighting, leading Thai officials to close over 850 schools and seven hospitals for safety reasons, as stated in a recent announcement.
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has deepened with both countries launching rocket and artillery strikes at each other.
At first, Thailand denied Cambodia’s allegations about using banned cluster bombs. But a Thai military spokesperson said these weapons could be used “when necessary” to hit military targets. Human Rights Watch has spoken out against using cluster munitions, especially in areas where people live.
Neither Thailand nor Cambodia has signed an international agreement that bans these types of weapons. It’s important to note that Thai forces used cluster munitions during a border fight with Cambodia in February 2011, which led to 20 deaths. John Sifton, who is the Asia advocacy director at Human Rights Watch, pointed out that both nations seem to be ignoring international humanitarian laws, which is causing serious harm to civilians. He emphasized how crucial it is to focus on diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts and build peaceful relationships, and to also protect citizens and civilian infrastructure.
Furthermore, Thai officials have confirmed the use of F-16 fighter jets and drones for conducting airstrikes during the conflict.
The United Nations urges ASEAN bloc to facilitate mediation.
The U.N. Security Council chose not to pass a resolution about the crisis during its emergency meeting on Friday. But on Saturday, Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said that all 15 member countries asked both sides to show restraint, stop fighting, and resolve the dispute peacefully. He also pointed out their support for ASEAN’s role in helping mediate between the two countries.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whose country is currently leading ASEAN, had earlier mentioned that both Thailand and Cambodia were generally open to his ceasefire idea. Reports from Malaysian media showed that Anwar has tasked the foreign minister with helping to organize peace talks to end the violence. Maris said on Saturday that his country fully supports the proposal but stressed that Cambodia needs to first show real intent and stop its aggressive actions, adding that Thailand will continue to work positively with Malaysia.
“Thailand reaffirms its commitment to resolving the conflict through peaceful means and in accordance with international law,” he said, urging Cambodia to “return to the negotiating table with sincerity and good faith.”
