Thailand Cambodia Border Clash Enters Third Day Dozens Dead And Thousands Displaced

---

 
HEAVY artillery exchanges between Thailand and Cambodia have entered their third consecutive day, deepening a border conflict that has so far resulted in at least 33 fatalities and displaced over 150,000 individuals from their homes.
The skirmishes, initially triggered in Thailand’s coastal Trat province along the Gulf of Thailand, have since expanded to affect six Thai provinces.
The situation remains tense, with communities near the frontline reporting the ongoing sounds of shelling.
Reporters from AFP stationed in Samraong, a Cambodian town close to the heart of the conflict, noted audible artillery fire on Sunday evening.
Similar reports came from Thai civilians sheltering in bunkers in Si Sa Ket, one of the hardest-hit regions.
“I just want this nightmare to be over,” said local resident Sutian Phiewchan via a phone interview.
Cambodian authorities allege that Thai forces have widened their assaults, targeting civilian structures, including schools, places of worship, and residential zones, a move Cambodia views as a clear escalation.
The Khmer Times, quoting Ministry of Defence spokesperson Maly Socheata, stated that Thai artillery fire reached beyond officially contested areas.
Thailand has refuted these claims, insisting its strikes are strictly focused on military objectives.
The Royal Thai Air Force confirmed the deployment of two F-16s and two Gripen fighter jets on Sunday afternoon.
Their mission: to neutralise Cambodian military positions in Phu Makua, Si Sa Ket — an area the Thai army reportedly reclaimed earlier the same day.
Thai forces also engaged Cambodian positions in Surin province, specifically at Prasat Ta Muean Thom, where enemy troops and artillery had been stationed.
Both locations were reportedly neutralised, with all Thai aircraft returning safely. Clashes were also documented in Sa Kaeo, bringing the total number of affected Thai provinces to six.
While both sides have expressed a willingness to consider a ceasefire, mutual distrust continues to derail negotiations. Each government accuses the other of obstructing peace efforts, according to the Bangkok Post.
The Thai military has urged residents in border areas to remain on high alert amid concerns that Cambodia may launch long-range missiles sourced from China, with capabilities of reaching up to 130 kilometres.
A Thai defence attaché in Beijing, Siwat Rattana-Ananta, met with Chinese officials earlier this week. He was assured that no new arms shipments have been made to Cambodia since the conflict began, and that any weapons currently in use were acquired under previous deals.
Cambodia’s military modernisation efforts have been heavily supported by China, through both financial and logistical aid — including upgrades to the Ream Naval Base and joint military training.
Thailand, in contrast, is a long-time strategic ally of the United States and maintains a fleet of American and Swedish-made fighter jets and advanced armoured vehicles.
Cambodia’s Defence Ministry announced that 13 of its nationals, including eight civilians and five soldiers, have died since the fighting reignited on Thursday, with 71 others injured.
Thai officials reported a similar toll: 13 civilian deaths, seven military fatalities, and 33 additional injuries.
The death toll has now exceeded that of the last major military standoff between the two countries, which took place between 2008 and 2011.
In terms of displacement, Thai authorities estimate over 138,000 people have fled their homes, while more than 35,000 Cambodians have been rendered homeless.
Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session in New York, Cambodia’s ambassador Chhea Keo urged for a swift and unconditional ceasefire, calling for a peaceful solution to the crisis.
“Cambodia seeks an immediate cessation of hostilities, without preconditions, and calls for diplomatic resolution,” he stated.
Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa responded by saying talks can only proceed if Cambodia demonstrates “genuine sincerity” in wanting to end hostilities.
Both governments continue to accuse each other of initiating the recent bout of violence.
Cambodia further claims that Thailand has employed cluster munitions, while Thailand alleges that Cambodian forces have targeted civilian infrastructure, including a hospital, petrol station, and a 7-Eleven convenience store in Si Sa Ket, the latter of which was reportedly struck by a rocket, resulting in eight civilian deaths.
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited displaced residents at a shelter in Ubon Ratchathani, expressing support for those affected.
“The military must complete its mission before any political dialogue can begin,” he told the press. — Focus Malaysia

---