Thailand confirmed that 13 civilians and one soldier died in a fierce border clash with Cambodia on Thursday. This was the most violent conflict between the two countries in recent years.
Thailand Launches Airstrike
Tensions had been rising for weeks along the shared border. On Thursday, Thailand responded with an airstrike after repeated disputes. Both nations traded gunfire soon after.
Blame Game Begins
Each side blamed the other for starting the violence.
Thailand accused Cambodia of being “inhumane, brutal and war-hungry.”
In return, Cambodia called Thailand’s actions “unprovoked military aggression.”
Cambodian Shelling Kills Civilians
Thai officials said Cambodian artillery fire killed 13 civilians and one soldier. It also injured 14 soldiers and 32 civilians. The attack even struck a hospital in Surin province.
A military spokesperson revealed that an eight-year-old boy was among the dead. Strikes were reported in six Thai provinces. However, civilian deaths happened in three provinces.
Cambodia Hits Back
Cambodia did not release its own casualty numbers. But it strongly condemned Thailand’s actions. Officials said Thai jets dropped two bombs on a public road. Cambodia called this move “reckless and brutal military aggression” against its sovereignty.
Diplomats Expelled on Both Sides
Earlier that day, Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador. It also recalled its envoy from Phnom Penh. This came after a landmine wounded five Thai soldiers near the border.
In response, Cambodia downgraded ties to the “lowest level.” It pulled out all but one diplomat from Thailand. It also expelled Thai diplomats from its capital.
China Issues Warning
China expressed concern over the violence. The foreign ministry urged both sides to settle their issues through dialogue. “We are deeply concerned over the current developments,” said spokesperson Guo Jiakun. He also advised Chinese citizens in Cambodia to remain alert.
ASEAN Calls for Peace
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also reacted. He currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He called on Thailand and Cambodia to de-escalate tensions and avoid further violence.