Border clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces continue for the 17th consecutive day, escalating tensions in the disputed region. Cambodian authorities have accused Thai troops of targeting civilian areas and employing prohibited weaponry in their attacks, allegations that have further strained relations ahead of crucial ceasefire talks.
Speaking at a press conference earlier today, a spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of Defense stated that fighting persists along the border. Official figures released by both sides indicate a significant loss of life, with at least 44 fatalities reported since renewed hostilities began on December 7th. Thailand has reported 23 deaths, while Cambodia has confirmed 21.
The conflict stems from a long-standing territorial dispute along the border, the demarcation of which dates back to the French colonial era. The ongoing clashes have resulted in the displacement of over 900,000 people from both sides of the border, creating a humanitarian crisis.
Efforts to de-escalate the situation are underway. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced that military representatives from both countries will meet tomorrow, Wednesday, to discuss ways to achieve a ceasefire. These discussions will take place under the framework of the Joint Border Committee, convening in the Chanthaburi province bordering Cambodia.
The Thai Foreign Minister indicated that his country is committed to allowing sufficient time to reach a new ceasefire agreement. Simultaneously, Cambodia has requested that the scheduled talks be held on neutral ground, citing security concerns related to the ongoing fighting. Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha, in a letter to his Thai counterpart Nattaphon Narkphanit, suggested that Malaysia, which holds the rotating presidency of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has agreed to host the talks in Kuala Lumpur.
