Thailand-Cambodia Border Fighting Enters Third Day Amid Ceasefire Appeals

Intense clashes between Thailand and Cambodia continued for a third straight day along their disputed border, defying international calls for a ceasefire and raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

The violence, which first erupted on Thursday near the long-contested Preah Vihear and Ta Moan Thom temples, has since spread to new areas, including Thailand’s coastal Trat province. Heavy artillery exchanges and rare airstrikes by Thai F-16 fighter jets have intensified the conflict, pushing the civilian death toll and displacement numbers higher. Over 130,000 residents on both sides have been forced to flee their homes, with makeshift shelters overflowing.

Thailand claims it is responding to Cambodian incursions, while Cambodia has accused Thailand of launching unprovoked attacks, including aerial bombings that it labelled a violation of international norms. Phnom Penh has appealed to the United Nations for urgent intervention and demanded an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.

Although Thailand initially signaled openness to a ceasefire proposal mediated by Malaysia, it later withdrew support, insisting any truce must reflect “ground realities.” This reversal has frustrated ongoing diplomatic efforts led by ASEAN, the United States, and China, all of whom have urged both nations to de-escalate and begin talks.

The root of the conflict lies in a century-old territorial dispute, previously ruled on by the International Court of Justice in 1962, which awarded the Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia. Despite this, tensions flared again in 2008 and have remained unresolved.

As both countries reinforce troop positions, concerns are growing about the safety of civilians trapped in the conflict zone. Relief efforts are underway, but continued shelling and road closures have hindered humanitarian access. With no immediate breakthrough in sight, the region remains on edge as global pressure mounts for restraint and dialogue.