Bangkok (Thailand), July 25(HS): The long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia intensified yesterday, leading to fierce clashes that left at least 15 dead. Fighting erupted in Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces before dawn. The EU, US, and China expressed concern, urging dialogue, while the UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting at Cambodia's request.

The Thai Second Army Area reported that hostilities began in the early hours, with Cambodia deploying Russian-made BM-21 rocket systems. Thai military officials confirmed the evacuation of 100,000 individuals from affected regions. The Royal Thai Army accused Cambodian forces of using heavy artillery, while both countries blamed each other for the conflict that occurred in at least six areas along the disputed border, particularly in Surin province, known for its agriculture.

A convoy of Thai military vehicles was seen moving towards the border amidst reports of loud explosions. Hours before the fighting began, Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia's envoy. A Thai soldier was injured by a landmine explosion, which Thailand attributed to Cambodian forces, a claim Cambodia denied. Meanwhile, a Cambodian spokesperson reported one civilian death and five injuries due to the fighting, and approximately 1,500 families were evacuated.

ASEAN's President and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for peaceful dialogue between the two nations, offering Malaysia's assistance in fostering negotiations. Thailand's Ministry of Interior indicated that over 100,000 people from four border provinces were relocated to around 300 temporary shelters, with the death toll rising to 14.

This confrontation is tied to the ongoing dispute over an 800-kilometer-long border, with previous altercations having occurred in 2008 and 2011. The UN resolved some aspects of the issue in 2013, but new tensions flared in May after a Cambodian soldier was killed.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar