Cambodia on Saturday urged Thailand to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. This appeal came after two days of intense border clashes between the two countries that resulted in the deaths of at least 14 Thai civilians.

Chhea Keo, Cambodia’s ambassador to the United Nations, said that Cambodia wants a peaceful end to the dispute. “We have sought an ‘unconditional’ ceasefire with Thailand,” he said, adding that “Phnom Penh also wanted a ‘peaceful solution to the dispute’.”

So far, Thailand has not given a public response to Cambodia’s ceasefire offer.

Thailand Declares Martial Law Near the Border

On Friday, Thailand declared martial law in eight districts close to the Cambodian border. The move came amid growing fears that the conflict could spread further.

Although Thailand has not agreed to mediation, the country’s foreign minister told Reuters that outside help is unnecessary. He stated that both countries could settle the conflict on their own. This came even as international leaders urged both sides to halt fighting.

Over 138,000 People Evacuated in Thailand

Thailand's health ministry reported that more than 138,000 people had been evacuated from areas near the border. Officials confirmed that 15 people had died — 14 civilians and one soldier. An additional 46 were injured, including 15 troops.

The Thai army said that fighting flared up again early Friday around 4 a.m. in three separate locations. Cambodian forces used heavy weapons, artillery, and BM-21 rocket launchers. In response, Thai troops returned fire using what they described as “appropriate supporting fire.”

The violence escalated following weeks of tension and border disputes. Eventually, Thailand launched an airstrike against Cambodian positions. Both countries have traded accusations for the latest violence.

Both Sides Blame Each Other for Violence

Each side has blamed the other for starting the fighting. Thailand has accused Cambodia of “inhumane, brutal and war-hungry” behavior. Meanwhile, Cambodia has criticized Thailand for “unprovoked military aggression.”

This ongoing blame game has made it harder to reach a peaceful solution, even as both countries face pressure from the international community.

Cambodia Takes the Issue to the United Nations

At the UN, Cambodia questioned Thailand’s claims that Cambodia started the conflict. Cambodia pointed out that it is a smaller and less powerful nation compared to Thailand.

Chhea Keo told the Security Council, “(The Security Council) called for both parties to (show) maximum restraint and resort to a diplomatic solution. That is what we are calling for as well.”

Other representatives at the UN Security Council meeting did not speak to the press afterward.

Thailand Closes Its Borders as Fighting Spreads

Thailand has now shut down its border with Cambodia. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that the fighting has expanded to 12 different locations. He also said that both sides are now using heavy weapons.

This marks a serious escalation in the conflict, and there are growing fears that the situation could worsen if no agreement is reached soon.