The clashes started near the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple area, which both countries have claimed for years. Reports say Cambodian forces fired rockets and shells into Thailand, hitting a fuel station and a hospital. This led to several civilian deaths, including a young child. In response, Thai fighter jets bombed Cambodian military positions and returned fire with heavy weapons.
So far, at least 15 people have died, and more than 130,000 people have fled their homes in Thailand. Cambodia has also reported thousands of its citizens moving away from the border.
The Thai government has declared martial law in eight districts near the border. Both countries have cut diplomatic ties and sent each other’s ambassadors home. Thailand also shut down internet and fuel supply lines going into Cambodia.
This fight is not new. For many years, both countries have argued over the land around ancient temples. An old video of Thai and Cambodian leaders talking secretly also caused more tension recently. That video led to Thailand’s prime minister being suspended from office.
People across the world are now worried. The United Nations and ASEAN are calling for peace. But both Thailand and Cambodia are still preparing for more attacks.
It is still unclear how long the fighting will last, but many fear that it could turn into a bigger war if not stopped soon.
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