Tensions escalate along the Thailand–Cambodia border as both countries continue to accuse each other.
Thailand has rejected international mediation offers over the armed clash with Cambodia. The foreign ministry stated that the conflict should be resolved only through bilateral negotiations.
In the past two days, artillery fire has been exchanged along the Thailand–Cambodia border. This is considered one of the most intense military confrontations between the Southeast Asian neighbors in the past decade. At least 16 people, mostly Thai civilians, have reportedly been killed.
Thailand’s foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura told Reuters: “At this stage, we don’t require third-party mediation. This is a dispute between two countries, and the most effective solution is through bilateral mechanisms.”
The US, China, and Malaysia—currently chairing ASEAN—offered to mediate in hopes of easing the conflict. However, Thailand rejected these offers and urged Cambodia to be the first to halt attacks along the border.
The conflict began Thursday in a disputed area where sovereignty issues have persisted for years. It started with light arms fire and quickly escalated to artillery exchanges.
Thailand accuses Cambodia of recently planting landmines that injured Thai soldiers. Cambodia has rejected these accusations.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council regarding the issue, accusing Thailand of “deliberate and unprovoked military aggression.” The UN has stated it will hold a closed-door session to discuss the matter.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as ASEAN chair, has spoken with both nations’ leaders and urged a peaceful resolution.
According to Thailand’s foreign ministry: “If the ASEAN family wants to support a return to constructive bilateral negotiations, we’re open to that as well.”
The border situation remains tense, with both sides blaming each other for provocations, while military activity continues. Thailand’s position is clear — the conflict must be resolved between the two nations, without international mediators.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
