Thailand Accuses Cambodia of Starting Armed Conflict, Calls Hospital Strikes a ‘War Crime’ | Sri Lankan Post News
Bangkok, July 26 — Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has accused Cambodia of initiating the latest armed clashes between the two countries, claiming that Cambodian forces used military aggression first and deliberately targeted civilian areas.
Speaking at the Government House on Friday, Phumtham described the attacks on hospitals and civilian zones as “a severe war crime,” according to a report by The Nation. He also stated that Thailand’s Foreign Minister had briefed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the situation and submitted a formal letter to the UN Security Council.
In response to the escalating tensions, Thai authorities have imposed martial law in the border provinces of Chanthaburi and Trat, as both countries began evacuating civilians from frontline areas.
Rising Death Toll and Airstrikes
According to Thailand’s Health Ministry, the ongoing conflict has resulted in 15 deaths, including one Thai soldier. Cambodia has confirmed the death of a Buddhist monk and reported that five people were injured in airstrikes allegedly carried out by the Thai air force on Thursday.
The latest confrontation marks a sharp deterioration in Thailand-Cambodia relations, which have now reached their lowest diplomatic level in decades.
Background of the Dispute
Tensions have been simmering since May 28, when Thai and Cambodian troops exchanged fire along the disputed border region, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The contested area lies between Preah Vihear province in Cambodia and Ubon Ratchathani province in northeastern Thailand — a longstanding flashpoint between the two Southeast Asian nations.
The two countries have a complex history over territorial claims in the region, particularly surrounding the ancient Preah Vihear temple, which has led to multiple military standoffs in the past.
As international concern mounts, observers are watching closely to see whether regional or global diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the growing crisis.
