Renewed fighting along Thailand-Cambodia border leaves 10 dead
What's the story
Renewed clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border that broke out 48 hours ago have left at least 10 people dead and thousands displaced. According to the BBC, the violence has spread to six provinces in northeastern Thailand and five in Cambodia's north and northwest. On the Cambodian side, seven civilians have been killed and around 20 injured. Meanwhile, three Thai soldiers have died, including one from a grenade launcher attack.
Ceasefire collapse
Ceasefire breakdown and international calls for resolution
The clashes have broken a fragile ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump in July. Both countries have accused each other of firing into civilian areas with artillery, rocket systems, and drones. Trump has urged both nations to "fully honor" their commitments under the ceasefire agreement. The ongoing violence coincides with Thailand hosting the Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok and Chonburi Province from December 9 through 20.
Dispute history
Border dispute's historical context and recent political fallout
The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has lasted over a century, dating back to the era of the post-French occupation of Cambodia. Tensions escalated in 2008 when Cambodia attempted to register an 11th-century temple as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, leading to protests from Thailand. The conflict has also had political repercussions in Thailand, with former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra being ousted after a leaked phone call with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen amid rising tensions.
Intervention plea
Calls for ASEAN intervention and security measures at SEA Games
Amid escalating violence, Cambodian academic and senior advisor to the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies, Sothirak Pou, has called for ASEAN intervention to resolve the conflict. Meanwhile, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has offered mediation support. As a result of the conflict, Cambodia has also withdrawn half of its athletes from the Southeast Asian Games over safety concerns. Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Prompao assured top-notch security for Cambodian athletes participating in the event.