Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has spread to new areas along their contested border, leaving 10 people dead and forcing more than 140,000 civilians to flee their homes.
The renewed clashes erupted on Sunday, with Thailand launching airstrikes and deploying tanks, while Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen, confirmed that Cambodian forces retaliated after initially holding fire for two days.
This week’s fighting is the deadliest since July, when five days of combat killed dozens and displaced roughly 300,000 people before a temporary truce. Tens of thousands of civilians have evacuated border provinces, taking shelter in pagodas and temporary camps. Nearly 500 shelters now house over 125,000 evacuees.
According to Cambodian authorities, seven Cambodian civilians have been killed and about 20 wounded, while the Thai army reported three soldiers killed. The conflict has also affected historic sites, including the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear temple.
Thai officials accused Cambodia of escalating tensions by deploying drones and setting up weapon bases in disputed areas. In response, Thailand launched operations to push back Cambodian forces.
The dispute stems from a century-old border disagreement dating back to French colonial maps, with both nations claiming ownership of temples and surrounding lands.
International calls for restraint have been made by the United Nations, European Union, Malaysia, China, and the United States, urging both sides to halt hostilities and protect civilians.
