Cambodia calls for ceasefire as border clashes with Thailand intensify

New Delhi, Jul 26: Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand entered its third day on Saturday, with at least 32 people killed and nearly 200,000 displaced across both countries. Cambodia has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and urged a peaceful resolution to the border dispute.

Tensions escalated following clashes that began on Thursday, with both nations blaming each other for initiating the conflict. Thai officials reported 19 deaths, including 13 civilians, and said nearly 140,000 people have been evacuated. Cambodia reported 13 deaths and said over 35,000 people have fled their homes, reports BBC.

Fighting has now spread across 12 locations along the border, including Thailand’s Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, and Srisaket provinces. Thailand has declared martial law in eight districts and accused Cambodia of shelling civilian areas, while Cambodia has alleged Thailand used banned cluster munitions.

The Bangkok Post reported that in one of the most intense confrontations, Thai forces reportedly regained control of the strategic Phu Makua highland in Si Sa Ket province after repelling a pre-dawn Cambodian assault. Photos shared by the Thai army showed soldiers raising the national flag at the site, affirming their commitment to defending national sovereignty. Meanwhile, border rail services between Aranyaprathet and Ban Khlong Luek have been suspended indefinitely due to security concerns. Thai forces also repelled incursions at multiple points in Sa Kaeo province on Saturday afternoon, reports Bangkok Post.  The situation remains volatile as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate continue.