Thailand’s acting Prime Minister has warned that escalating border clashes with Cambodia “could develop into war,” as both countries engage in deadly military exchanges.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has warned that ongoing cross-border clashes with Cambodia “could develop into war,” following deadly strikes that continued for a second day. The conflict has forced over 138,000 people to evacuate Thailand’s border regions, with 15 deaths and 46 injuries reported. Martial law was declared in eight districts bordering Cambodia, after what officials described as Cambodian forces entering Thai territory.
Fighting resumed around 4:00 am Friday, with Cambodia reportedly using heavy artillery and rocket systems. Thailand responded with “appropriate supporting fire,” and scrambled F-16 jets. A 70-year-old Cambodian civilian was reported killed, with several others injured.
Both nations blame each other for initiating the violence. Thailand has offered to resolve the issue diplomatically, possibly through Malaysia and ASEAN. Cambodia, however, claims Thailand backed out of a proposed truce.
The conflict stems from a long-standing territorial dispute that saw previous clashes between 2008 and 2011. The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency session.