Thai-Cambodia Border Conflict Enters 3rd Day Amid Calls for Ceasefire from Trump and Malaysia

Fighting on the Thai-Cambodian border extended into a third day with new flashpoints emerging on Saturday. Both sides claimed self-defence in the border dispute and urged the other to stop fighting and begin negotiations.

Over 30 people have died and more than 130,000 have been displaced in the worst conflict between the two Southeast Asian nations in 13 years. Clashes occurred early Saturday in Trat, Thailand, and Pursat, Cambodia, over 100 kilometers away from previous conflict areas.

The tension began after the killing of a Cambodian soldier in May, leading to a diplomatic crisis that saw both countries reinforcing troops. As of Saturday, Thailand reported 7 soldiers and 13 civilians killed, while Cambodia reported 5 soldiers and 8 civilians dead.

In Sisaket, Thailand, a university compound is now a temporary shelter for over 5,000 people. The situation has forced many to flee their homes, leaving loved ones behind.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, chair of the ASEAN bloc, proposed a ceasefire, which Cambodia supported while Thailand agreed in principle. Efforts are being made to halt the fighting and resume dialogue.

Thailand and Cambodia have a long-standing border dispute over various points along their 817-kilometer border. The ownership of ancient temples like Ta Moan Thom and Preah Vihear has been central to the conflicts.

Preah Vihear was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962, but tensions rose in 2008 when Cambodia sought UNESCO World Heritage status for the site, leading to skirmishes and deaths.

Both countries have differing views on resolving the disputes, with Cambodia seeking court intervention while Thailand prefers bilateral discussions.

According to the source: CBC.