Bangkok: Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Friday accused Cambodia of instigating the recent armed conflict by initially using military force, leading to the imposition of martial law in border provinces. During a speech at the Government House, Phumtham condemned the targeting of hospitals and civilian areas by Cambodian forces as a "severe war crime."

According to Anadolu Agency, Phumtham emphasized that the situation does not amount to a formal declaration of war against Cambodia but described it as "merely a clash along the border." The Thai government has taken steps to inform international bodies, with the foreign minister briefing the UN chief and sending a letter to the UN Security Council regarding the unfolding events.

Local media outlets reported that martial law has been enforced in the two Thai border provinces of Chanthaburi and Trat as of Friday. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, serving as the current ASEAN chair, expressed serious concern over the conflict. Anwar noted that while both nations appear willing to cease hostilities, vigilance is necessary due to the region's strategic importance. He also highlighted the need for both countries to gradually withdraw troops as part of a ceasefire effort, as reported by the state news agency Bernama.

The Thai Foreign Ministry expressed agreement with Anwar's ceasefire proposal, stating on its X account that any truce must be contingent upon suitable conditions on the ground. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet indicated his approval of the ceasefire proposal, although Thailand reportedly reversed its initial support for the truce.

Both Thailand and Cambodia have commenced the evacuation of residents from the affected border areas. The Thai Health Ministry reported a rising death toll of 15, including one soldier, while Cambodia confirmed the death of a monk and five injuries following Thai airstrikes on Thursday.

Diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand have deteriorated to their lowest point in decades, with tensions escalating since May 28, when border skirmishes resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The longstanding border dispute involves areas between Cambodia's Preah Vihear province and Thailand's northeastern Ubon Ratchathani province.