Death toll rises to 12 as deadly clash erupts between Thailand and Cambodia

Armed conflict has erupted between Thailand and Cambodia amid long-standing border disputes, resulting in at least 12 fatalities.

On Thursday, intense gunfire broke out near the contested eastern border, close to the Ta Moan Thom temple. The clashes involved military forces from both countries.

According to the Thai military, six civilians were killed and two injured in an attack near a gas station in Ban Phu, Kantharalak district, Sisaket province. Additional violence in Ban Chorok, Kap Choeng district, Surin province, resulted in two deaths—including an eight-year-old boy—and two injuries.

Further clashes in Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani province, left one person dead and another injured. One injury was also reported in Ban Kruad district, Buriram province. Several homes and livestock were damaged during the attacks.

In response to the violence, Thailand announced the closure of all its borders with Cambodia.

Meanwhile, Cambodia called for an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting to address the conflict. In a letter to Council President Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet condemned Thailand’s recent aggression as a serious threat to regional peace and stability, urging an immediate ceasefire.

The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Thai forces of launching a premeditated attack on Cambodian border positions without provocation. Cambodia has demanded that Thailand halt hostilities and avoid further provocations.

The situation remains tense as both nations grapple with the escalating conflict.