Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have sharply escalated as deadly border clashes continue for a second day. Authorities have confirmed that at least 16 people have died so far in the fighting.
Fifteen people, including civilians and one soldier, were killed in Thailand. One person was confirmed dead in Cambodia. Both countries have blamed each other for starting the violence, which began in disputed areas along the border.
Over 120,000 people have fled from their homes as the fighting spreads. According to Thailand’s Interior Ministry, more than 100,000 people from four Thai provinces have been evacuated. The affected provinces include Surin, Sisaket, Buriram, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Cambodian officials reported that nearly 20,000 people have evacuated from the northern border area in Preah Vihear province.
Heavy artillery and rocket fire have been exchanged between the two armies. Thai officials said the clashes have now spread to 12 separate locations, up from six the previous day.
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health reported at least 14 civilian deaths and one soldier killed on Thursday. Over 30 Thai civilians and 15 soldiers were also injured.
In Cambodia, five people were wounded during shelling from Thai forces, according to a local official.
The acting Prime Minister of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai, warned that the situation could move towards war if tensions are not reduced. He confirmed that both sides have used heavy weapons, including long-range rockets and airstrikes.
Thailand admitted to launching an F-16 fighter jet to target Cambodian positions. Cambodia, in return, fired rockets toward Thai civilian areas, the Thai military claimed.
The conflict has also caused damage to cultural sites. Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture said the ancient Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, suffered severe damage during the shelling.
The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the growing crisis.
The United States has called for an immediate end to hostilities. China, a close ally of Cambodia, urged both countries to settle the dispute through peaceful dialogue.
As military activity intensifies, both nations face increasing pressure from the international community to de-escalate the situation promptly.
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