Thailand–Cambodia conflict escalates with new airstrikes despite ceasefire calls

International

The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has entered its third day, marked by renewed airstrikes and rising casualties, despite mounting international calls for an immediate ceasefire.

Thai fighter jets reportedly targeted military positions in the Phu Ma Kua region and around the Ta Muen Thom temple, according to The Nation. In response, Cambodia confirmed the attacks and launched retaliatory strikes, as reported by the Khmer Times. Cambodian authorities have since closed the airspace over areas affected by the clashes.

The Thai Navy has deployed four support vessels to assist ground forces. On Saturday, Thai forces claimed control of a strategic hilltop located approximately 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles) from the Preah Vihear temple.

So far, at least 33 people have been killed in the latest escalation, including six Thai soldiers and five Cambodian soldiers. Dozens more have been injured, and thousands of civilians on both sides have been evacuated from the conflict zone.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterated on Saturday his commitment to brokering peace. He stated that both sides had "agreed" to a ceasefire during phone conversations held on Thursday night. Nevertheless, the situation on the ground has continued to deteriorate.

The UN Security Council held an emergency closed-door meeting on Friday in New York, with both Cambodian and Thai representatives present. Cambodia’s UN Ambassador Chhea Keo called for an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire" and urged a peaceful resolution.

Thailand submitted a letter to the Council accusing Cambodia of initiating the conflict and appealed to the international community to demand an end to hostilities and the resumption of sincere negotiations. Cambodia, meanwhile, has urged the UN World Tourism Organization to condemn what it called deliberate Thai attacks on the Preah Vihear Temple, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

China has denied accusations of supplying military equipment to Cambodia amid the conflict.

The recent flare-up stems from longstanding tensions over the border between Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province and Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province. Tensions reignited on 28 May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed, triggering the current wave of violence.