Tensions have escalated sharply along the Thailand-Cambodia border, where two days of deadly clashes have left at least 32 people dead, including 13 civilians and 6 soldiers from Thailand and 12 more from Cambodia, according to officials from both nations. The recent violence has raised serious concerns that the long-standing border dispute could spiral into a full-blown conflict in Southeast Asia.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed on Saturday that 7 civilians and 5 soldiers were killed in the latest attacks. The violence reportedly began when a landmine explosion on Thursday injured five Thai soldiers near the disputed border region. That same day, direct cross-border attacks began, with both sides accusing each other of initiating the violence.
Thailand reported that Cambodian forces launched long-range rockets at civilian targets, including a petrol station, killing six people. In retaliation, the Thai military launched airstrikes using F-16 fighter jets, targeting Cambodian positions, including a Buddhist temple where a civilian was reportedly killed. Cambodia has also accused Thailand of using cluster bombs, which are banned by many countries, calling it a violation of international law.
The fighting has forced mass evacuations. According to local media, 20,000 Cambodians have been moved from northern border areas, while over 138,000 Thais have been relocated from the conflict zone. Thailand has declared martial law in 8 border districts and established nearly 300 emergency relief centers to assist displaced citizens.
The United Nations Security Council held a closed-door emergency meeting on Friday night in New York but released no formal statement. However, diplomats said all 15 members urged both sides to de-escalate and seek a peaceful resolution. Thailand has signaled openness to a ceasefire proposal from Malaysia, while Cambodia has called for an immediate and unconditional truce. Still, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister warned that continued fighting could lead to a broader war.