Armed clashes erupted early Thursday between Thai and Cambodian forces along a contested section of their shared border, with both sides blaming the other for initiating the violence following weeks of rising tensions.
Cambodia’s defence ministry claimed Thai troops crossed into its territory without provocation, prompting Cambodian forces to respond in self-defence. Meanwhile, Thailand’s military accused Cambodian troops of opening fire near the disputed Ta Moan Thom temple, alleging they first sent a surveillance drone, then moved in with heavily armed soldiers.
Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai called the situation sensitive and urged that any response be handled carefully and in accordance with international law.
