Cambodia Responds to Renewed Conflict with Thailand Along Border
In a dramatic escalation along the border, Cambodia is once again at odds with Thailand, as tensions flare in several provinces straddling their shared boundary. This resurgence of conflict has prompted a firm response from Hun Sen, Cambodia’s former prime minister and an influential figure who currently leads the country’s Senate.
In a statement posted on Facebook Tuesday, Hun Sen recounted the situation: “After exercising patience for over 24 hours to honor the ceasefire and allow for the safe evacuation of civilians, we retaliated last night and this morning.” His words underscore a commitment to self-defense in the face of increasing hostilities.
The specifics of Cambodia’s retaliation remain murky, raising questions about the unfolding dynamics on the ground.
Tens of Thousands Evacuated
This alarming announcement follows accusations from Cambodia, asserting that Thai soldiers opened fire in the border province of Banteay Meanchey. According to the Cambodian Ministry of Defense, these confrontations have tragically resulted in the deaths of two more civilians, bringing the total civilian toll to seven amidst the latest hostilities.
Maly Socheata, a spokesperson for the ministry, confirmed these casualties in a subsequent briefing with journalists. The violence has also left twenty individuals injured, further underscoring the human cost of this renewed conflict.
In a further escalation, the Cambodian Ministry of Defense reported on Tuesday morning that the Thai military resumed attacks in multiple border zones, including near the historically significant Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
As the situation intensified, tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate from border areas since fighting erupted on Sunday.
The Thai military, too, has reported mounting losses. An official statement on Tuesday revealed the death of two additional Thai soldiers, bringing the total fatalities for Thailand to three. The somber tally includes one soldier who lost their life on December 8 and two others on December 9.
The unfolding events highlight the fragile nature of peace in the region, and as both nations brace for the possibilities ahead, the call for diplomatic resolution has never been more pressing.