Phnom Penh — Cambodian and Thai troops exchanged fire on Thursday at a disputed border area, escalating tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
Both the Cambodian Defense Ministry and the Thai army accused each other of initiating the clash near the Ta Moan Thom temple, a historic site claimed by both countries. The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations over border demarcation around ancient temples along their shared border.
Cambodia’s Response
A spokesperson for Cambodia’s Defense Ministry stated that Thai troops made an unprovoked incursion into Cambodian territory, prompting Cambodian forces to respond in self-defense. Former Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen reported that two Cambodian provinces came under shelling from Thailand’s military.
In a message posted on his Facebook page, Hun Sen called for calm, urging Cambodians to trust in their armed forces and the government’s ability to protect national sovereignty.
Thailand’s Position
The Thai military claimed that Cambodian troops opened fire first after deploying a surveillance drone and sending heavily armed forces into the disputed area. Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai described the border situation as delicate, emphasizing the need for careful handling in accordance with international law.
Diplomatic Relations Downgraded
The clash occurred shortly after Thailand recalled its ambassador from Cambodia and announced plans to expel Cambodia’s envoy in Bangkok. The diplomatic rift widened following incidents where two Thai soldiers were injured by landmines in the disputed area within a week.
In retaliation, Cambodia downgraded diplomatic ties to the lowest level and recalled all diplomatic staff from Bangkok, according to Cambodian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chum Sounry.
Thailand alleges that the landmines were recently planted, an accusation Cambodia has dismissed as baseless.
Historical Tensions
The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has simmered for decades, with both nations laying claim to lands surrounding ancient temples. Clashes in the past have resulted in casualties on both sides and have disrupted the lives of residents in border communities.
Calls for Peaceful Resolution
International observers are urging both countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to peacefully resolve the conflict.
