Bangkok, July 25: Tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border escalated into full-blown military clashes this week, leaving 14 Thai nationals dead and at least 46 others injured. The violence, which erupted following a landmine blast on Wednesday that wounded five Thai soldiers, has sparked a sharp diplomatic fallout and raised alarms across the international community.
Thailand’s Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin confirmed the death toll on Friday, stating that the casualties included 13 civilians and one soldier. Accusing Cambodia of targeting civilians and even a hospital, Somsak condemned the attacks as violations of international law and demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The clashes intensified on Thursday, with fighting reported in at least six areas along the border, including near the ancient and sensitive Ta Muen Thom temple. Thai F-16 fighter jets were deployed in response to what authorities described as Cambodian truck-mounted rocket attacks, framing the airstrikes as acts of self-defence.
While Cambodia has yet to release its official casualty figures, its Defence Ministry responded forcefully, accusing Thailand of targeting roads near the Preah Vihear temple—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and warned of legal action. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called on the UN Security Council to urgently intervene, prompting a closed-door session in New York on Friday.
Amid the growing hostilities, Thailand has sealed all land border crossings and advised its citizens to leave Cambodia. Several Thai airlines have stepped in to assist with repatriation efforts. Meanwhile, thousands have been evacuated from border areas in both countries, with residents taking shelter in makeshift camps.
The crisis has also intensified political pressure within Thailand, where Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is overseeing the country’s response following the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra earlier this month.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged both nations to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through dialogue, echoing widespread international concern over the escalating violence between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.
