Clashes Continue on Thailand–Cambodia Border; Thai Prime Minister Rejects Calls for Ceasefire

International Desk, PNN

Despite former U.S. President Donald Trump calling for a ceasefire mediation, military clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have not stopped. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated clearly that military operations would continue until the country’s territory and citizens are secure.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, Anutin said, “As long as threats exist to our country and people, Thailand will continue military action. This morning’s events clearly show our stance.”

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Defense, four Thai soldiers were killed in clashes on Saturday in the border area of Chong An Ma. Since the fighting began last Monday, 14 Thai soldiers have been killed. Cambodia has not officially reported casualties in the recent attacks.

Overall, more than 20 people have died and nearly 200 injured during six days of clashes. Violence along the border has forced around 600,000 people in both countries to flee their homes for safety.

Trump claimed on Friday that after phone talks with both prime ministers, both sides agreed to halt shooting. However, Thai officials said they did not formally agree to a ceasefire, and Cambodia did not comment directly.

Meanwhile, Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense accused Thailand of continuing airstrikes within Cambodian territory even after the ceasefire announcement. According to Cambodia, bombs from two warplanes hit several buildings, damaging border villages and structures.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Cambodian government has indefinitely closed the border with Thailand. Its Ministry of Interior announced that Cambodian citizens in Thailand and Thai citizens in Cambodia will remain in place until a ceasefire is effectively implemented.

Analysts note that the ongoing conflict is influencing Thai domestic politics. Observers believe Prime Minister Anutin’s popularity has increased due to the conflict, especially after his recent announcement to dissolve Parliament. National security issues could be politically advantageous for him ahead of upcoming elections.

Thailand and Cambodia have long-standing disputes over ownership of several ancient temples along their approximately 800 km shared border, which repeatedly sparks tensions and clashes. Recent fighting underscores the risk of escalating conflict without diplomatic solutions.