Bangkok: The Cambodian and Thai forces clashed along the disputed border on Thursday, with both countries deploying military power and experiencing significant casualties. The conflict marks a fresh escalation in a century-long border dispute that has seen frequent military confrontations in recent years.
According to Anadolu Agency, at least 12 Thais have been killed and another 17 injured in the latest outbreak of violence. Cambodia has not released any information regarding its casualties. The Thai military deployed F-16 fighter jets targeting Cambodian military sites, while Cambodia retaliated by firing rockets. This exchange has led to the displacement of hundreds of people on both sides of the border.
The disputed border lies between Cambodia's Preah Vihear province and Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani province. Tensions have been rising since May 28, when a Cambodian soldier was allegedly killed by cross-border fire. The current escalation was triggered by the laying of landmines, resulting in explosions and further injuries.
The border tensions have also sparked a political crisis in Thailand, culminating in the suspension of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This followed a leaked recording of a private call between her and Hun Sen, a former prime minister of Cambodia, where disparaging remarks about a Thai military commander were made.
The conflict has roots in colonial-era agreements, with Cambodia's claim based on a 1907 map from French colonial rule. The map's ambiguity led to conflicting interpretations, with Thailand contesting its validity. Although diplomatic efforts and international interventions, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ), have been attempted, the dispute remains unresolved.
Clashes between the two forces began in earnest in 2008, with both sides blaming each other for the violence. The last deadly confrontation occurred in 2011, resulting in at least 15 deaths and displacing tens of thousands. The conflict centered around a jungle border area with ancient temples claimed by both nations.
Legal interventions have been made, with a significant ruling in 1962 when the ICJ adjudged the Preah Vihear temple to be Cambodian territory. Further rulings in 2011 and 2013 reaffirmed this decision, obligating Thailand to withdraw military personnel. Despite these rulings, tensions have persisted, with both sides maintaining military presence in the disputed areas.
In response to the latest hostilities, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has requested the UN Security Council to address what he describes as 'premeditated military aggression' by Thailand. He emphasized Cambodia's commitment to peaceful and legal resolution of the border issues, and has also approached the ICJ following renewed tensions.
The conflict intensified earlier in May with a skirmish resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier on May 28. This incident has strained relations, bringing them to their lowest in years. A Thai soldier's injury from a land mine explosion further escalated the situation, prompting renewed military attacks and a downgrading of diplomatic relations.