Thailand and Cambodia Clash for Second Day as War Looms

Thailand and Cambodia engaged in intense fighting for a second consecutive day on March 15, 2024, as escalating tensions along their shared border raised fears of a full-blown war. The Thai health ministry reported that at least 14 civilians and one soldier have died in the conflict, with 46 individuals wounded. In contrast, Cambodian officials have not released comparable casualty figures, although a local official from Oddar Meanchey confirmed a civilian fatality and five injuries.

The Thai military responded to ongoing artillery bombardments from Cambodia by deploying fighter jets to strike military targets. The exchanges occurred across several disputed areas along the 817 km border, marking the deadliest clashes since 2011. Both nations accuse the other of initiating the hostilities, with Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai alleging that Cambodian forces deliberately targeted civilian areas, while Cambodia claims its troops were responding to a Thai attack.

Military Actions and Evacuations Intensify

In the wake of the violence, Thai authorities evacuated approximately 40,000 civilians from 86 villages near the border. The Thai army confirmed that F-16 fighter jets were deployed to bomb two military positions in Cambodia. Deputy spokesperson Richa Suksuwanon stated, “We have used air power against military targets as planned.” In retaliation, Cambodia reported that Thai warplanes dropped bombs near the ancient Preah Vihear Temple, escalating the situation further.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has formally requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address what he termed “unprovoked and premeditated military aggression” by Thailand, asserting it violates international law. The Security Council is scheduled to convene to discuss the conflict, while the United States has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott expressed deep concern over civilian casualties and urged both nations to pursue a peaceful resolution.

Diplomatic Relations Deteriorate

The conflict erupted following a landmine explosion that injured five Thai soldiers, which Bangkok attributed to Cambodia’s alleged violation of international treaties by laying new explosives. The first shots were reportedly fired at 08:20 local time near the historic Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple, with conflicting accounts regarding who fired first. The Thai army claimed a Cambodian drone was spotted before the initial exchange.

In response to the escalating tensions, Thailand expelled the Cambodian ambassador in Bangkok and recalled its own ambassador from Phnom Penh. Cambodia retaliated by reducing diplomatic ties and withdrawing staff from its embassy in Thailand, which has led to heightened nationalist sentiments and trade boycotts.

The ongoing conflict has historical roots, with disputes over un-demarcated areas along the border that date back over a century. The boundary was initially established by France in 1907 during its colonial rule over Cambodia. Tensions intensified in 2008 when Cambodia sought to register the contested 11th-century temple as a UNESCO World Heritage site, provoking protests from Thailand.

Both nations have expressed a willingness to consider a ceasefire, as noted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who has engaged in discussions with leaders from both countries. He remarked, “I welcome the positive signals and willingness shown by both Bangkok and Phnom Penh to consider this path forward.”

As the conflict continues to escalate, the international community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life and maintain regional stability. The situation remains delicate, with both Thailand and Cambodia indicating that they intend to adhere to international law while navigating the complexities of their historic rivalry.