Global (Commonwealth Union) _ The border clashes that are currently taking place between Thailand and Cambodia have prompted immediate international intervention and mass evacuations of civilians, ahead of leaders from both nations preparing to meet in Kuala Lumpur to conduct urgent peace talks. With the violence reaching its fourth day, the conflict has resulted in at least 35 fatalities and forced over 218,000 people to flee their homes on both sides of the frontier.
The talks, scheduled to be held on Monday, were organised with the backing of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and involved participation from the United States and China. Both Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet have confirmed their attendance, stoking hopes for a potential ceasefire.
A landmine explosion that injured five Thai soldiers reportedly triggered the escalation. Both sides exchanged blame for initiating the hostilities, with both governments calling back ambassadors before closing major border crossings, instigating significant concerns about the humanitarian fallout.
U.S. President Donald Trump has also publicly stated that trade agreements with both nations could be suspended if violence persisted, following which Cambodia has reportedly agreed to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” following Trump’s call. Thailand expressed agreement “in principle,” while requesting “sincere intention” from Cambodia in future negotiations.
Nevertheless, the fighting has continued over the weekend, particularly in Surin Province in Thailand and Oddar Meanchey in Cambodia. According to reports by Thai military officials, civilian homes have been shelled amid allegations of Cambodian forces launching rocket attacks on the Ta Muen Thom temple, leading to counterattacks by Thailand using long-range artillery. Meanwhile, Cambodia has also accused Thailand of initiating a large-scale incursion backed by tanks and heavy bombardment.
Both sides claim that the other is escalating the situation while they prepare for negotiations. The Thai military’s summary warned that Cambodia might be preparing for a “major military operation,” whereas Cambodian defence officials accused Thailand of undermining peace through provocation.
Over 139,000 Thais and 79,000 Cambodians are seeking shelter as the humanitarian situation worsens, leading to the abandonment of many border villages. Local shelters, such as one in Surin, are overflowing with displaced families. India acknowledged international concerns on Saturday, expressing its hope for a resolution to the conflict and pledging to monitor the situation closely. Sri Lanka’s Vulnerable Omalpe Sobhitha Thera has also responded to the conflict on behalf of the Maha Sangha (Buddhist monastic order), urging Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to step in as a neutral mediator, as Sri Lanka has a rich history of Buddhist cultural ties with both countries.
