Deadly Clashes Between Thailand and Cambodia Displace Over 130,000
TRAT – At least 30 people have died and more than 130,000 people have been forced to leave their homes in the worst fighting between Thailand and Cambodia in 13 years.
The fighting spread to Trat, a Thai coastal province, on Saturday morning, far from the usual conflict areas near the border. This started after a Cambodian soldier was killed in May, causing both countries to send more troops and raise tensions.
Death Toll:
Thailand: 19 people
Cambodia: 13 people (5 soldiers, 8 civilians)
A hotel worker in Sisaket province said his town is now almost empty. “Nearly everybody’s gone,” he told reporters. “Only a few are staying close to the border.”
Thailand and Cambodia Blame Each Other
Thailand said Cambodia planted landmines in Thai territory and launched attacks on Thursday. Thailand’s UN ambassador asked Cambodia to stop all fighting and start peace talks.
On the other hand, Cambodia accused Thailand of starting the attacks and preparing for more military action. Cambodia also asked the international community to condemn Thailand’s actions.
Long History of Conflict
Thailand and Cambodia have argued for decades over their border, especially near two ancient Hindu temples – Preah Vihear and Ta Moan Thom.
Although the International Court of Justice gave Preah Vihear to Cambodia in 1962, tensions grew in 2008 when Cambodia tried to make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This led to years of small fights and deaths.
Cambodia recently went back to the court for help. But Thailand refuses to accept the court’s role, saying it wants to solve the matter through talks between the two countries.
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