US Calls on Thailand and Cambodia to End Renewed Border Clashes

The United States has urged Thailand and Cambodia to “cease hostilities immediately” after renewed clashes along their long-disputed border left at least 10 people dead and forced hundreds of thousands from their homes. The latest violence marks the most serious escalation since a flare-up in July, which killed dozens and heightened regional concerns.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on both countries to adhere to de-escalation measures outlined in a peace accord brokered by former US President Donald Trump in October. Trump also indicated that he would intervene personally with a phone call to halt the fighting.

Deaths and Displacement Mount Amid Clashes

The recent clashes have left seven Cambodians and three Thais dead over three days of fighting, according to official reports. Thai authorities have evacuated more than 400,000 residents from affected areas, while Cambodia said around 100,000 people have been moved to temporary shelters.

Thailand’s defense ministry described its military actions as “limited in scope and employed as a last option,” emphasizing the priority of civilian safety. “Peace must come with the safety and security of our citizens, full stop,” a ministry spokesman said.

Cambodia, by contrast, accused Thailand of launching “aggressive military attacks” targeting civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage sites, including historic temples along the disputed border.

In a further sign of tension, Cambodia announced it would withdraw from the South East Asian Games currently hosted in Thailand. The Cambodian National Olympic Committee cited safety concerns raised by athletes’ families and described the decision as “not made lightly.”

International Calls for Restraint

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appealed for restraint from both sides, highlighting the impact of the clashes on civilians. “The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, damage to civilian infrastructure, and displacement on both sides,” he said.

The current escalation follows a long history of conflict over territorial sovereignty. The border dispute dates back more than a century, originating after the French colonial administration defined Cambodia’s boundaries. Tensions have erupted periodically, most recently in July, when Cambodian forces fired rockets into Thailand, prompting Thai air strikes. Five days of intense fighting then left dozens of soldiers and civilians dead before a ceasefire, brokered by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Trump, temporarily eased tensions.

Renewed Fighting Across Multiple Provinces

This week’s violence has spread to at least six provinces in northeastern Thailand and five provinces in northern and northwestern Cambodia, highlighting the fragility of the peace. Governments including the United Kingdom, Japan, and the United States have issued travel advisories warning citizens against visiting border areas.

Despite a ceasefire agreement signed in October, tensions have simmered, and both sides have traded accusations. Analysts note that the renewed clashes underscore the challenges of resolving longstanding territorial disputes in Southeast Asia and the potential humanitarian consequences when diplomacy falters.

Background: A Century-Old Border Dispute

The Thailand-Cambodia border stretches roughly 800 kilometers, with disputes over sovereignty dating to post-colonial border arrangements. Historical temples and culturally significant sites have frequently been caught in clashes, complicating efforts at peaceful resolution. Regional diplomats have emphasized the need for dialogue and adherence to international law to prevent further escalation.