Tensions have escalated between Cambodia and Thailand after deadly clashes along their shared border killed at least 14 Thai citizens. Cambodia, seeking to avoid further violence, has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
Cambodia's ambassador to the United Nations, Chhea Keo, stated on Saturday that the country wants a ceasefire without any conditions. He said, “We want a peaceful solution to the dispute.”
Phnom Penh emphasized the need for diplomacy to stop the conflict. However, Thailand has not made any official statement in response to Cambodia’s peace proposal.
In the meantime, Thailand declared martial law across eight districts near its border with Cambodia. Despite international calls for calm, Thailand’s foreign minister told Reuters that outside mediation was unnecessary. According to him, both countries are capable of resolving the issue on their own.
Thailand's health ministry revealed that over 138,000 people have been evacuated from the border areas. The clashes have claimed 15 lives — 14 civilians and one soldier — and left 46 others injured, including 15 military personnel.
According to Thai military officials, fighting resumed around 4 a.m. on Friday. They said Cambodian troops used field artillery, BM-21 rocket systems, and heavy weapons. In response, Thai forces returned fire accordingly.
Tensions reached a boiling point after weeks of minor border disputes escalated into a full exchange of fire. Thailand responded with an airstrike targeting Cambodian positions.
Each side is blaming the other for starting the conflict. Thailand accused Cambodia of being “inhumane, brutal and war-hungry,” while Cambodia accused Bangkok of “unprovoked military aggression.”
At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Cambodian envoy Chhea Keo challenged Thailand’s claim that Cambodia initiated the violence. He pointed out that Cambodia is smaller and militarily weaker than Thailand, questioning the logic behind the accusation.
He stated, “(The Security Council) called for both parties to (show) maximum restraint and resort to a diplomatic solution. That is what we are calling for as well.”
Other UN Security Council members did not speak publicly after the meeting.
Meanwhile, Thailand has sealed off its border with Cambodia. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that fighting has intensified and spread across 12 different locations. He also noted that both sides are now using heavy weapons.
