Thousands Flee Across Borders as Thailand-Cambodia Clashes Escalate

Thailand and Cambodia traded blame Monday after fresh clashes erupted along their disputed border, leaving four Cambodian civilians and a Thai soldier dead. The Thai military launched air strikes in response to Cambodian attacks, while Cambodia accused Thailand of targeting military positions, including near the centuries-old Tamone Thom and Preah Vihear temples.

Around 35,000 people in Thailand have been evacuated from border areas, while over 1,100 families fled in Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province. Civilians described the fear and disruption caused by the renewed fighting, with many seeking shelter after recalling the deadly combat in July, which killed 43 people and displaced some 300,000.

The conflict stems from a long-standing border dispute dating back to French colonial mapping, with both nations claiming boundary temples. Sporadic skirmishes reignited last weekend after Thailand paused a ceasefire deal backed by former US President Donald Trump following a landmine incident.

Thai authorities stated their air strikes targeted only military positions to stop Cambodian fire, while Cambodia accused Thailand of attacking first. Regional leaders, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, have called for restraint and dialogue. Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, however, insisted that his country would not be told to exercise restraint, urging that the aggressor, not Thailand, stop the fighting.

#MaltaDaily