Bangkok, Thailand – Tensions are escalating along the Thai-Cambodian border as renewed clashes have resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement. At least nine Thai soldiers have been killed this week in the ongoing conflict, according to a statement released by the Thai Ministry of Defence.
Ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongsiri confirmed the death toll in a press conference on Thursday, stating that over 120 additional soldiers have been wounded. The clashes, which have now entered their fourth day, are reportedly more intense than previous skirmishes experienced in July.
The Cambodian government has appealed to the United Nations Security Council, urging international pressure on Thailand to cease its attacks. Phnom Penh alleges that Thai shelling has caused extensive damage to homes, schools, and ancient temples within Cambodian territory.
The renewed fighting has triggered mass evacuations on both sides of the border. Thai authorities have evacuated over 400,000 citizens from border regions, providing shelter as a precaution. “More than 400,000 people have been moved to shelters,” Kongsiri stated, citing concerns over the immediate threat to civilian safety. Initial government reports had estimated a lower evacuation figure of 180,000.
On the Cambodian side, the Ministry of Defence reports that over 100,000 citizens have been evacuated from border areas. Spokesperson Mali Suteachta stated that “a total of 20,105 families – or 101,229 people – have been evacuated to shelters and relatives in five provinces.”
These recent clashes follow a period of relative calm brokered months ago. The underlying cause stems from longstanding territorial disputes between the two Southeast Asian nations. The latest outbreak of violence began last Sunday, resulting in injuries to two Thai soldiers and effectively shattering a ceasefire previously pushed for.
