Renewed hostilities have flared along the contested Thailand-Cambodia frontier, with reports of heavy gunfire prompting Thailand to evacuate border villages. The latest escalation marks the most serious confrontation between the neighbouring nations in over a decade.
Civilian Exodus as Shelling Intensifies
Thai authorities confirmed the evacuation of nearly 300 civilians from border communities after sustained artillery exchanges began at dawn. "We're seeing families abandon homes with only what they can carry," reported a Red Cross volunteer assisting displaced persons.
Historical Dispute Turns Violent
The current conflict centres on the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose ownership has been disputed since French colonial times. While the International Court of Justice awarded the temple to Cambodia in 1962, surrounding territory remains contested.
Regional Implications
ASEAN officials have expressed concern that the clashes could destabilise the region. "This isn't just a bilateral issue - it threatens the entire Mekong subregion's security," warned a Singapore-based geopolitical analyst.
The Thai military has deployed additional troops to border provinces, while Cambodia has reportedly moved heavy artillery into the disputed zone. Both governments accuse the other of provocation, with no immediate diplomatic resolution in sight.
