Thailand has declared a curfew in five districts of Trat province as fighting with Cambodia spreads to coastal areas, two days after US President Donald Trump said both sides had agreed to stop hostilities. The move aims to protect civilians in the disputed border region.
The conflict reignited earlier this year following the death of a Cambodian soldier in May, displacing hundreds of thousands of people on both sides. Clashes have continued despite repeated calls for ceasefires and diplomatic talks between the neighbouring countries.
Read more : Trump claims truce, but Thailand strikes Cambodian positions
Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, Thai Defence Ministry spokesman, said Thailand seeks a diplomatic resolution but stressed that Cambodia must first cease hostile actions before negotiations can proceed. The military confirmed targeted operations against pre-positioned artillery and bridges used for weapons delivery.
Cambodia accused Thailand of attacking civilian infrastructure during the cross-border operations. Meanwhile, Thailand’s curfew excludes popular tourist islands such as Koh Chang and Koh Kood, although Sakeo province remains under a previously imposed curfew due to ongoing tensions.
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Trump, acting as a mediator, reported speaking with Thailand’s caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Premier Hun Manet, urging both sides to honor commitments and cease all shooting. However, Thai leadership has vowed to continue defending its territory until threats are eliminated.
The border clashes along the 817-kilometre frontier mark some of the most intense fighting this year, despite prior US and Malaysian mediation. International observers remain concerned about escalating civilian displacement and the potential for wider regional instability.