Cambodia Calls for Ceasefire After Deadly Clashes with Thailand
Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire with Thailand following two days of intense clashes along the shared border. The appeal was made through its representative at the United Nations, urging a halt to violence to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.
Dozens Killed, Thousands Displaced
At least 32 people have been confirmed dead in the recent fighting, with 19 fatalities reported in Thailand—mostly civilians—and 13 in Cambodia. The clashes have forced more than 130,000 people to flee their homes, including over 100,000 in Thailand and around 30,000 in Cambodia.
Heavy shelling and cross-border airstrikes have damaged several villages and infrastructure near the disputed zones, including areas around the Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear temples.
Use of Heavy Weapons and Martial Law
The conflict saw the use of artillery, BM-21 rocket systems, and airstrikes. Thailand deployed F-16 fighter jets for targeted operations. In response to the violence, Thai authorities declared martial law across eight districts bordering Cambodia, suspending civil rights and deploying additional troops to the region.
UN and ASEAN Step In
The United Nations Security Council held an emergency closed-door meeting where members called for restraint and immediate de-escalation. Regional group ASEAN, currently chaired by Malaysia, has offered to mediate the conflict. Cambodia has welcomed international diplomatic efforts, while Thailand has yet to respond formally.
Tensions Over Longstanding Border Dispute
The current conflict stems from unresolved territorial disagreements that date back decades. Both countries blame each other for initiating the recent clashes, with national media in both nations fueling a rise in nationalist sentiment. Analysts warn that if left unchecked, the situation could spiral into a prolonged border standoff with severe humanitarian consequences.
The region remains tense, with both militaries on high alert and civilians caught in the middle of an unpredictable and fast-changing conflict.
