Fighting has resumed along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, leading to new military escalations. Today, December 8, Thai military forces carried out airstrikes on military targets in Cambodia, explaining this as a response to shelling from Cambodian forces.
According to reports, the Thai army struck positions of Cambodian troops that they believed posed a direct threat to national security. As a result of the new clashes, one Thai soldier was killed, and four others were injured.
Background of the conflict
This dispute between the two countries has a long history that stretches back over a hundred years, during which the sides have argued over a border extending more than 800 km. At the heart of the conflict is the Hindu temple complex of Preah Vihear, which is part of the territorial disputes. The previous escalation of the conflict occurred in July of this year, when fighting lasted five days, claiming at least 43 lives.
Situation on the ground
Thailand has announced the evacuation of more than 385,000 civilians from areas near the conflict. About 35,000 people have already been housed in temporary shelters. Cambodian authorities, for their part, claim that during the recent attacks by Thailand, civilians were killed, including four noncombatants.
The Cambodian leadership has called on the international community to condemn Thailand's actions and hold it accountable for its aggression. An important aspect is that last year, with the mediation of U.S. President Donald Trump, the countries signed a peace agreement aimed at stabilizing the situation, but the recent escalation calls its effectiveness into question.
Experts warn that further military buildup and hostilities could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe and serious consequences for both countries.
