SURIN — Heavy fighting between Thai and Cambodian forces along the disputed border has triggered a major humanitarian crisis, displacing over 130,000 people and leaving dozens dead, according to regional officials and international agencies.
Mass Displacement and Rising Casualties
Over 100,000 Thai civilians have been evacuated from border provinces such as Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Meanwhile, Cambodian authorities report more than 23,000 people displaced in areas near Oddar Meanchey province.
Thai data indicate fatalities have reached 32, mostly civilians, and injuries number in the dozens. Cambodia has also acknowledged civilian casualties and injuries on its side as the conflict deepens.
Rapid Escalation of Combat
What began as localized skirmishes erupted into full-blown exchanges of heavy artillery, BM‑21 rocket fire, and small arms across at least 12 border points. Thailand responded with airstrikes and deployed F‑16 jets to hit Cambodian military positions near Ta Muen Thom temple. Both sides have accused each other of using banned munitions and targeting civilians and protected sites like the Preah Vihear temple.
International Diplomatic Flashpoints
- The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting; global powers including the U.S., China, the EU, and ASEAN leaders have called for restraint and dialogue. Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, has offered mediation—but Thailand insists on bilateral resolution and rejected third-party intervention.
- Both countries recalled ambassadors and expelled envoy personnel in response to mutual accusations and violence escalation.
Underlying Triggers and Political Fallout
The conflict reignited months of mounting tensions, including a landmine incident injuring Thai soldiers in May and political turbulence in Thailand following revelations related to Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s communications with Cambodian leaders. Her suspension added domestic instability, while the breakdown of long-standing political alliances between leadership families fuelled nationalistic rhetoric on both sides.
Why It Matters
| Focus Area | Implications |
|---|---|
| Humanitarian Crisis | Over 130,000 displaced across both nations; widespread disruption and civilian risk |
| Escalating Weapon Use | Artillery, rockets, drones, cluster munitions & airstrikes sharply raise conflict intensity |
| Diplomatic Breakdown | ASEAN mediation offers clash with Thailand’s insistence on bilateral talks |
| Historic Flashpoint | Disputed temples like Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear reignite nationalist fervour |
| Political Instability | Leadership crises and falling alliances heighten risk of further escalation |
