Thailand imposes curfew as border clashes with Cambodia intensify
What's the story
Thailand has imposed a curfew in its Trat province after border clashes with Cambodia intensified, Channel News Asia reported. The conflict, which reignited over a week ago, started after a Cambodian soldier was killed in May. Despite US President Donald Trump's mediation efforts, the conflict shows no sign of abating, with both countries continuing to blame each other for the escalation.
Curfew details
Thailand's curfew and military actions against Cambodia
The curfew in Trat province, which borders Cambodia's Koh Kong, prohibits residents from leaving their homes between 7:00pm and 5:00am. According to the report, this is not the first time a curfew has been imposed due to the conflict; a similar measure is still in place in eastern Sakeo province. Thai forces have also destroyed a bridge used by Cambodia for heavy weapon transport and targeted artillery in the coastal Koh Kong province.
Conflict impact
Casualties and border closures amid ongoing conflict
The ongoing violence has claimed at least 25 lives, according to the official tally, which includes 14 Thai soldiers and 11 Cambodian civilians. In response to the escalating conflict, Cambodia closed its border crossings with Thailand on Saturday. This left many migrant workers stranded on both sides of the border.
Diplomatic tensions
Diplomatic efforts and misunderstandings regarding ceasefire
Despite Trump's mediation attempts, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said no ceasefire had been reached. Bangkok Post quoted him as describing the situation as "likely a misunderstanding." On Saturday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim proposed a truce monitored by an ASEAN observer team, which was welcomed by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, but Anutin reiterated that no ceasefire had been reached.