Thai-Cambodia Clashes Kill 20+, Evacuate 130,000+ Along Border

Intense border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have resulted in at least 15 deaths in Thailand, including civilians and one soldier, with Cambodia confirming its first fatality. Over 130,000 people have fled the affected border areas, seeking refuge in temporary shelters across several Thai provinces, while Cambodian authorities report thousands evacuated near the border. The fighting escalated after a land mine explosion wounded Thai soldiers, with both sides reporting use of heavy artillery and rocket launchers, and accusations of targeting civilian sites and use of human shields. Several hospitals on the Thai side have closed due to safety concerns, prompting the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to manage medical responses and patient transfers. The United Nations Security Council plans to hold an emergency meeting to address the crisis, and Malaysia, chairing the ASEAN regional bloc, has called for a ceasefire and offered to mediate. Despite diplomatic efforts, clashes continued with artillery fire reported near disputed border areas, raising fears of a broader conflict.