Bangkok: Thailand has declared that it will not succumb to pressure or be placed at a disadvantage during the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, scheduled for Monday. The meeting will address the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry deputy spokesperson Maratee Nalita Andamo announced that Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow would head a delegation to Malaysia for the discussions. "Thailand's stance remains clear: the country seeks peace and does not pose a threat or encroach upon the sovereignty of other nations. Thailand has consistently expressed its desire for lasting peace, and Cambodia must demonstrate sincerity in this matter," she stated.
The Thai Army has accused Cambodia of targeting civilian areas with BM-21 rockets, impacting homes and Phanom Dong Rak Hospital. Conversely, the Khmer Times reported that Cambodia accused Thailand of bombing its territory with F-16 fighter jets, including the destruction of O' Jik Bridge and attacks on civilian areas in Pursat province.
In efforts to mediate, China's Special Envoy for Asian Affairs, Deng Xijun, visited Phnom Penh, meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to discuss de-escalation strategies. The Cambodian Foreign Ministry highlighted the urgent need for a ceasefire and emphasized peaceful dialogue as the only solution. Deng reassured that China would continue facilitating dialogue between the two nations for a peaceful resolution.
Casualty reports indicate that during the clashes, 21 Thai soldiers and one civilian have died. Meanwhile, Cambodia's Interior Ministry reported 18 civilian deaths and 78 injuries. Thailand also reported an additional 33 civilian casualties, attributing them to indirect effects of the conflict.
Despite a previous peace agreement signed in October, facilitated by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, tensions remain high. The agreement was suspended following a landmine incident injuring Thai soldiers. The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, marked by numerous violent clashes, has once again escalated, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic intervention.