Thailand reported that 13 civilians and one soldier died in the most violent border clash with Cambodia in recent years. The deadly incident took place after rising tensions led to open fire between the two nations on Thursday.
Thailand Launches Airstrike
The conflict intensified when Thailand carried out an airstrike against Cambodia. This came after weeks of arguments and minor skirmishes near the border. Both sides exchanged blame for starting the latest violence.
Thailand accused Cambodia of behaving in an “inhumane, brutal and war-hungry” way. In return, Phnom Penh condemned Thailand’s actions as “unprovoked military aggression”.
Thai Casualties and Damaged Hospital
Thai authorities revealed that Cambodian shelling killed 13 civilians and one soldier. Fourteen soldiers and 32 civilians were injured. A hospital in Surin province was also struck during the attack, according to Thailand’s health minister.
A Thai military spokesperson added that an eight-year-old boy was among the victims. Civilians were killed across three provinces, and Cambodian attacks were reported in six provinces in total.
Cambodia Hits Back at Thai Airstrike
Cambodia has not yet shared its own casualty numbers. However, officials confirmed that Thai fighter jets dropped two bombs on a road. Cambodian authorities described the incident as “reckless and brutal military aggression of the Kingdom of Thailand against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cambodia”.
Diplomatic Relations Break Down
Tensions escalated further when Thailand expelled the Cambodian ambassador. The move came after five Thai soldiers were hurt by a landmine earlier in the week. Thailand also called back its own envoy from Cambodia.
In response, Cambodia reduced diplomatic ties to “the lowest level”. It expelled Thai diplomats and left only one Cambodian official in Thailand.
China and ASEAN React
China voiced concern over the worsening situation. It issued a safety alert for its citizens in Cambodia. “We are deeply concerned over the current developments and hope both sides can properly resolve issues through dialogue and consultations,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whose country leads ASEAN, urged both nations to calm the situation and avoid further violence.
