Thailand Cambodia Border Clashes Kill 16 Displace Thousands

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated into deadly artillery exchanges along their disputed border, resulting in at least 16 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands. Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned the conflict could escalate into a state of war, accusing Cambodia of deploying heavy weapons and targeting civilians, while Cambodia condemned Thailand's use of cluster munitions and called the attacks a violation of its sovereignty. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence condemned the artillery strikes as unlawful aggression and reaffirmed its right to self-defense under the UN Charter. Both countries blame each other for starting the conflict, which has intensified along a frontier disputed for over a century. The US and China have expressed deep concern and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a peaceful resolution. Despite international pressure, fighting continues with both sides maintaining a strong military stance and urging bilateral mediation.