Thailand has called for a peaceful resolution to the deadly border fighting with Cambodia, emphasizing its preference for bilateral dialogue while leaving the door open to potential involvement from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) if necessary. According to Nikorndej Balankura, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, “We have always insisted we want to resolve this matter peacefully through bilateral mechanisms… Very unfortunately, the Cambodian side has not reacted positively.”
The clashes have resulted in significant casualties, with at least 13 Thai civilians and one soldier killed, and 45 people wounded, including women and children. Cambodia has reported one death on its side. Nikorndej said the Thai military came under direct fire, contributing to the current escalation. In response, the government has opened evacuation shelters, deployed medical teams, and distributed aid to civilians displaced by the clashes.
Thailand has evacuated at least 100,000 people from areas near its eastern border with Cambodia, as shelling and gunfire displace civilians, reviving memories of past conflicts. Cambodian officials said about 20,000 people have evacuated from the country’s northern border. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned that the conflict could turn into a full-scale war if the situation worsens.
Malaysia, which currently chairs ASEAN, has reached out to both sides, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussing potential regional engagement with his Thai counterpart. Nikorndej confirmed that Thailand’s doors are open to talks, but they are still waiting for positive reactions from the Cambodian side. Regarding possible third-party mediation, he added that it’s a bit premature to say they are ready for any mediation, “but if we are going to talk about anyone to step in and help, countries in ASEAN… would be best suited”.
The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has a long history, dating back to the colonial era. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in Cambodia’s favor in 2013 regarding the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the court did not address other disputed areas, especially those within the “Emerald Triangle”, a shared border region between Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, where troops frequently clash. Thailand has refused to acknowledge the ICJ’s jurisdiction in this issue.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both sides “to exercise maximum restraint and address any issues through dialogue”. The US, EU, and China have also called for an immediate end to the conflict and a return to negotiations.