Thailand-Cambodia Tensions Escalate, Over 500,000 Flee Hundreds of Thousands Displaced

Samraong: Fresh violence erupted along the Cambodia-Thailand border, forcing over half a million people to flee their homes in both countries. The recent clashes have resulted in at least 11 deaths, including Thai soldiers and Cambodian civilians, and have displaced over 500,000 people, with more than 400,000 evacuated in Thailand and 100,000 in Cambodia.

The conflict stems from a century-old border dispute with both countries claiming ownership of historic temples along the 800 km frontier. This latest escalation is the deadliest since July, when five days of fighting killed dozens and displaced around 300,000 people. US President Donald Trump has offered to intervene, having previously brokered a ceasefire in July and a joint declaration in October. However, in November, Thailand suspended the agreement to prolong their ceasefire the following month.

The fight has prompted Cambodia to withdraw from the Southeast Asian Games, hosted by Thailand, citing safety concerns. The international community, including the United States, China and Malaysia, is urging restraint and calling for a peaceful resolution.

As the situation unfolds, civilians are bearing the brunt, with many seeking shelter in pagodas, schools and other safe havens. The Thai defence ministry reports that over 400,000 people have been moved to safe shelters across seven provinces, while Cambodia's defence ministry says 101,229 people have been evacuated to safe areas.