Martial Law, Mass Evacuations in Thai-Cambodia Conflict

Clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have intensified along their disputed border, resulting in the evacuation of over 130,000 people in Thailand and more than 1,500 families in Cambodia, as well as the imposition of martial law in Thai border regions. The conflict, involving heavy artillery and rocket fire, has caused at least 15-16 deaths, primarily among Thai civilians, and both sides accuse each other of initiating hostilities and targeting non-military sites. Thai officials have condemned Cambodia for 'grave war crimes' and sought international condemnation, while Cambodia blames Thailand for premeditated aggression. Thailand has rejected mediation offers from the US, China, and Malaysia, preferring bilateral talks but expressing conditional openness to ASEAN involvement. The violence has disrupted daily life, forced residents into shelters, closed schools, and halted farming activities. The situation remains tense as international actors monitor developments and concerns mount that fighting could escalate into a wider war.