Cambodia Calls for Immediate Ceasefire With Thailand Amid Deadly Border Clashes
UN Security Council holds emergency meeting over escalating conflict between neighbors
Cambodia has called for an 'immediate ceasefire' with Thailand following the exchange of deadly strikes between the neighboring countries.
The long-standing border dispute intensified into combat, involving jets, artillery, tanks, and ground troops on Thursday, prompting the United Nations Security Council to hold an emergency meeting on the crisis.
Phnom Penh's UN ambassador, Chhea Keo, urged for a peaceful resolution to the dispute during the closed council meeting attended by both Cambodia and Thailand.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with Oddar Meanchey province in Cambodia reporting one civilian death and five injuries.
Meanwhile, Thailand has evacuated over 138,000 people from its border regions, with 15 fatalities including 14 civilians and a soldier, as well as 46 wounded, including 15 troops.
The fighting resumed around 4 am on Friday, with both sides utilizing heavy weapons and artillery.
Thai Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nikorndej Balankura stated that while the situation had slightly eased by Friday afternoon, Thailand remains open to diplomatic talks, potentially facilitated by Malaysia, which currently holds the ASEAN chair.
This recent escalation marks a dramatic increase in tension between the two countries, who have been at odds over their shared 800-kilometer border for years.
A UN court ruling in 2013 had settled the matter, but the current crisis began in May after a Cambodian soldier's death in a clash.
The fighting has focused on several contested areas, including sites near ancient temples, with both sides employing various military assets.
Despite ongoing conflict, there is a call for restraint and diplomatic engagement to find a resolution.