At least nine civilians were killed in a violent exchange between Thai and Cambodian forces near their disputed border on March 15, 2024. The conflict escalated significantly when a Thai F-16 fighter jet struck targets in Cambodia, following accusations from both nations regarding the initiation of hostilities.
The Thai army reported that the majority of casualties occurred in Si Sa Ket Province, where six individuals lost their lives after gunfire erupted at a petrol station. Tragically, among the deceased was an eight-year-old boy. In addition to the fatalities, fourteen people were injured due to the fighting, as stated by the Thai military.
Both countries have engaged in a war of words, blaming each other for the outbreak of violence. According to Richa Suksuwanon, deputy spokesperson for the Thai army, air power was deployed against military targets in Cambodia as planned. In response, Cambodia’s defence ministry claimed that the Thai jets dropped two bombs on a road and accused Thailand of violating a previously established agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions.
The clashes came shortly after Thailand announced plans to expel Cambodia’s ambassador following the injury of a second Thai soldier due to a landmine explosion in the disputed area. This recent violence has forced residents in the Surin border province to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, many of which are constructed from concrete and fortified with sandbags and car tires. One local woman, speaking to the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (TPBS), described the chaos, stating, “How many rounds have been fired? It’s countless.”
The root of this conflict lies in a long-standing territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. For over a century, the two nations have contested sovereignty over various undemarcated areas along their 817-kilometer land border. Previous skirmishes have resulted in numerous casualties, including a week-long artillery exchange in 2011. Tensions flared again in May 2023 after the death of a Cambodian soldier during a brief gunfire incident, leading to a diplomatic crisis that ultimately escalated into armed conflict.
The latest hostilities began early Thursday near the Ta Moan Thom temple, approximately 360 kilometers from the Thai capital, Bangkok. The district chief of Kabcheing in Surin province, Sutthirot Charoenthanasak, reported that artillery shells fell on civilian homes, attributing the fire to Cambodian forces. Conversely, a spokesperson for Cambodia claimed that there was an unprovoked incursion by Thai troops, asserting that their response was one of self-defense.
In light of the situation, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasized the need for caution, stating, “We have to be careful. We will follow international law.” This statement underscores the delicate nature of the ongoing conflict, which not only affects military personnel but also the lives of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Historically, border disputes have been a source of tension between Thailand and Cambodia. The most notable conflict arose over the ancient Preah Vihear temple, where in 1962, the International Court of Justice recognized Cambodian sovereignty. This ruling has continued to strain relations, with military clashes leading Cambodia to return to the court in 2011, which reaffirmed its previous decision in 2013.
As the situation continues to evolve, the implications for both nations and their citizens remain significant, with the potential for further escalation looming on the horizon.
