Over Half a Million Displaced as Cambodia–Thailand Border Fighting Intensifies

Over Half a Million Displaced as Cambodia–Thailand Border Fighting Intensifies
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More than half a million people have been displaced in Cambodia following renewed and deadly border clashes with Thailand, Cambodian authorities said on Sunday. The fighting has centered on disputed border areas near the centuries-old Preah Vihear temple, where exchanges of fire reportedly resumed before dawn. Cambodia accused Thai forces of continuing attacks using heavy weaponry, while Thailand said it came under assault from its neighbor earlier in the day.

Cambodia’s Interior Ministry said at least 518,611 people, including large numbers of women and children, have been forced to flee their homes and schools due to shelling, rocket fire and air strikes. According to Cambodian officials, Thai F-16 aircraft were among the assets used during the fighting. The displaced are facing severe humanitarian conditions as they seek safety away from the border.

Officials from both countries said the latest escalation follows weeks of sporadic violence that has involved tanks, drones and artillery. The clashes have killed at least 22 people in Thailand and 19 in Cambodia, according to official figures. The long-running dispute stems from unresolved border demarcation dating back to the colonial era, compounded by the presence of ancient temples along the frontier.

Despite earlier mediation efforts by the United States, China and Malaysia, and discussions within ASEAN, ceasefire attempts have repeatedly collapsed. Diplomatic efforts are expected to continue, with regional foreign ministers set to meet in Kuala Lumpur to seek a political solution.