Thailand-Cambodia: At Least 33 Dead in Border Clashes

At least 33 people have been killed in ongoing clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, according to official reports. The fighting has escalated despite calls for de-escalation and mediation efforts.

The hostilities, which have continued for a third day, involve the use of fighter jets, tanks, and artillery. Phnom Penh has called for an immediate ceasefire from Bangkok.

Cambodia's Defense Ministry announced that 13 people were killed and 71 injured on the Cambodian side. The Thai military reported 20 deaths, including 14 civilians and 6 soldiers.

Over 170,000 people have been displaced on both sides of the border. Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN presidency, has offered to mediate.

The two sides accuse each other of initiating the hostilities. Thailand claims that Cambodia targeted civilian infrastructure, while Cambodia accuses Thailand of using cluster munitions.

The dispute over sovereignty in border areas has lasted for decades. A 2013 ruling by the International Court of Justice in The Hague failed to resolve the issue definitively.

Source: ΑΠΕ – ΜΠΕ