Regional stability in Southeast Asia is under threat once again as Thai and Cambodian forces have resumed clashes along their disputed border, with reports indicating a significant escalation in hostilities. The latest fighting has resulted in the death of one Thai soldier and injuries to seven others.
According to foreign media reports, the Thai military has confirmed that they have extended their attacks to new points along the contested frontier with Cambodia. Thai forces are reportedly utilizing aircraft to target Cambodian military positions. A Thai military spokesperson alleged that the Cambodian military has increased its deployment of troops and weaponry along the border.
Conversely, Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense has accused the Thai military of initiating the provocations, stating that Thai forces attacked two locations following these actions. The Cambodian statement insisted that their troops have not yet retaliated. Amidst the rising tensions, Thailand has unilaterally suspended the existing peace agreement with Cambodia.
Regional leaders have voiced profound concern over the armed clashes. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged both Cambodia and Thailand to exercise restraint and maintain contact in the interest of peace. The current fighting follows accusations from both nations just yesterday that the other had violated the ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump. This renewed conflict is particularly alarming given that a previous five-day war in July resulted in 48 deaths on both sides and displaced an estimated 300,000 people, leading to the peace accord signed in Kuala Lumpur in October.
