Deadly violence has erupted along the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia, marking the worst conflict between the two Southeast Asian neighbors in over a decade. The clashes, which began after a landmine explosion wounded Thai soldiers, have escalated into full-scale artillery exchanges, airstrikes, and mass evacuations.
At least 33 people have been killed, including civilians and soldiers, and more than 200,000 residents have fled their homes on both sides of the border. The fighting centers around long-contested regions near ancient temples and rural villages, where nationalist tensions have simmered for years.
Both countries accuse each other of initiating the attacks. Thailand claims Cambodian forces fired first and used civilians as human shields, while Cambodia alleges Thai jets bombed civilian areas and deployed cluster munitions—an internationally condemned weapon. Neither country is a signatory to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.
The conflict has triggered a diplomatic breakdown:
- Ambassadors recalled and border crossings closed.
- Schools and hospitals shut down for safety.
- UN and ASEAN have called for immediate ceasefire talks.
International pressure is mounting. US President Donald Trump intervened with late-night calls to both leaders, urging negotiations. Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, is actively mediating, while China has offered to help de-escalate the crisis.
Despite public statements supporting peace, fresh artillery clashes erupted Sunday morning, casting doubt on ceasefire hopes. The situation remains volatile, with fears that the conflict could spiral into a broader regional crisis.