At least 33 people have been killed and more than 130,000 residents have been evacuated as tensions between Thailand and Cambodia boil over into deadly clashes. The border region, gripped by violence for the past three days, has seen a sudden surge in military activity and mutual accusations of provocation from both nations.
Cambodia has confirmed the deaths of five soldiers and eight civilians, while Thai officials have reported 19 fatalities, though it remains unclear if those include non-combatants.
On Saturday morning, fighting erupted in a new hotspot—Trat, a coastal province on the Thai side of the border. Reuters reported that Thai naval forces were involved in the latest confrontation. Meanwhile, the nearby Sisaket province appears nearly deserted. A local hotel worker remarked, “The city is almost empty. Most people have left. We’re still open for those from closer to the border who need a place to stay.”
Just one day prior, Thailand’s ambassador to the United Nations, Cherdchai Chaivaivid, appealed to Cambodia during a Security Council session, urging an immediate halt to “all acts of aggression” and calling for a return to good-faith dialogue. Chaivaivid also claimed that two Thai soldiers were injured by newly laid landmines on Thai territory since mid-July—accusations that Cambodia denies.
Tensions are escalating rapidly, with Thai interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warning that the situation risks spiraling into full-scale war.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense has also fired back, accusing Bangkok of launching an “unprovoked and unlawful military assault” and mobilizing troops and equipment along the border. In a strongly worded statement, the ministry said Thailand’s actions reflect a clear intention to “expand aggression and violate Cambodian sovereignty.”
Cambodian officials are now urging the international community to condemn Thailand’s actions and prevent further escalation.
