A deadly border clash between Thai and Cambodian troops has left at least 12 dead—all but one of them civilians—and forced mass evacuations in the reigniting of a century-old dispute between the Southeast Asian neighbors, reports the BBC. Another two dozen civilians and seven military personnel were injured, Thai authorities say, per the Guardian. The incident unfolded with both sides blaming each other for firing the first shots. Thailand says its forces responded after Cambodian troops opened fire following a failed attempt at negotiation; Cambodia alleges that Thai soldiers advanced on a contested temple, prompting the confrontation. Reports say both armies used heavy weapons, with Thailand accusing Cambodia of launching rockets and Cambodia claiming Thai airstrikes hit its military positions.
Thailand has since closed its border, while Cambodia has reduced diplomatic ties, accusing Thailand of "excessive force." Each country has urged residents near the frontier to evacuate, and Thailand reports having moved 40,000 civilians to safer ground. Among the dead are at least two children and one Thai soldier, with homes and a hospital in Thai provinces reportedly damaged by artillery. The roots of the conflict trace back to colonial-era border lines and a long-running dispute over an ancient temple. Recent tensions were worsened by the death of a Cambodian soldier during a clash in May and retaliatory trade and border restrictions. Both militaries have reinforced their positions in recent weeks.
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