Urgent Appeal: Cambodia Urges Thailand for Immediate Ceasefire to Restore Peace

Cambodia has urgently called for a ceasefire with Thailand after two days of intense fighting along their border. The Cambodian ambassador to the UN, Chhea Keo, emphasized the need for an “unconditional” truce and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Thailand has not yet responded to this ceasefire proposal. However, it declared martial law in several border districts, aiming to contain the situation. Tragically, the recent clashes have already claimed at least 16 lives, with thousands more forced to evacuate their homes.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, warned that these clashes could escalate into a full-blown war. Fighting has spread to 12 locations, involving heavy weaponry. Thailand accused Cambodia of targeting civilian areas, leading to the evacuation of villages near the conflict zone. In contrast, Cambodia has alleged that Thailand is using banned cluster munitions, causing further concern over civilian safety.

Recent statistics highlight the severity of the situation: according to local authorities, 14 civilians and one soldier have died in Thailand, while at least one civilian casualty has been reported in Cambodia. The conflict erupted after Cambodia deployed drones to monitor Thai troop movements. Cambodia claims the conflict began when Thai troops encroached on a culturally significant Khmer-Hindu temple, violating previous agreements.

This ongoing dispute has deep historical roots, stretching back over a century. Tensions surged after a Cambodian soldier was killed earlier this year, marking a significant low in relations between the two nations.

As global leaders call for an immediate ceasefire, the prospect of resolving this conflict through diplomatic channels remains uncertain. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who chairs ASEAN, offered to mediate discussions, while the US called for the protection of civilians and a cessation of hostilities. As the situation continues to develop, the international community watches closely, concerned for the lives of those caught in the middle.

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