Border clashes between Cambodia, Thailand leave several dead

BANGKOK/PHNOM PENH: Violence flared between military forces of Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed borders on Thursday.

The spike in violence resulted in at least 12 perishing, mostly civilians. Several were also fatally injured as the latest escalation erupted over a longstanding territorial dispute.

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The military clash started amid mutual accusations, with Thai officials alleging Cambodian forces initiated hostilities by firing rockets. The Thai military then retaliated with air strikes, targeting several Cambodian positions.

Both countries have since reinforced troop deployments and closed border crossings.

The dispute dates back to colonial-era border delineations established French control of Cambodia. Relations have been strained intermittently, especially since Cambodia’s 2008 move to register an ancient temple within the contested area as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This triggered diplomatic protests and a series of violent episodes.

Tensions worsened in May after a Cambodian soldier’s death led to resections on trade and utilities by Cambodia against Thailand. Large-scale civilian evacuations was undertaken in Thai border provinces affected by the violence.

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Cambodian leadership expressed willingness for peaceful settlement but stated that it had the right to respond militarily to any aggression.

Meanwhile, Thailand refused to resolve the issue via negotiations until a halt in violence.