Why Are 80,000 Villagers Fleeing Their Homes Amid Border Clashes with Thailand?
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Synopsis
As tensions escalate between Cambodian and Thai forces, around 80,000 villagers have fled their homes. The ongoing clashes have led to significant casualties and school closures. Discover the latest updates and implications of this alarming conflict.
Key Takeaways
- 80,000 villagers have fled their homes due to ongoing border clashes.
- Over 30 casualties have been reported amid the conflict.
- 536 schools are closed, impacting 130,000 students.
- Flight prohibitions are in place to ensure safety.
- Diplomatic resolutions are essential to address the conflict.
Phnom Penh, July 27 (NationPress) Approximately 80,000 Cambodian villagers have been compelled to evacuate their residences in search of safety as hostilities between Cambodian and Thai military forces over contentious border territories have now reached a fourth day, as reported by a spokesperson from the defence ministry.
According to Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, the Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry, the number of displaced individuals across three provinces—Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, and Pursat—has escalated to 25,000 families, encompassing nearly 80,000 people.
Additionally, the closure of 536 schools has impacted around 130,000 students, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Since the outbreak of armed conflict between Cambodian and Thai troops over disputed regions on Thursday, it has been reported that over 30 individuals have lost their lives from both sides, prompting the evacuation of more than 100,000 people to safer areas, based on figures released by both nations.
Each side has accused the other of breaching international law and initiating hostilities.
On Saturday, Cambodia's State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) issued a ban on all flights traversing combat zones near Thailand, according to an official spokesperson.
Sinn Chanserey Vutha, the SSCA's secretary of state, stated that all airlines have been alerted to steer clear of these conflict areas, with the restricted zone extending to Poipet City, Pailin province, and parts of Siem Reap province.
He emphasized, 'All flights are instructed to maintain an altitude above 1,200 meters and to avoid flying over these airspaces.' This measure aims to safeguard flight operations and ensure the safety of both aircraft and passengers.
Vutha confirmed that, as of 10 a.m. local time on July 26, international flights from Phnom Penh to Bangkok and from Siem Reap to Bangkok continue to operate normally, as airlines have modified their trajectories to evade the restricted airspaces.
Point of View
It is important to approach this matter with a focus on humanitarian needs and the safety of affected civilians. The ongoing conflict highlights the necessity for diplomatic solutions and adherence to international law.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent clashes between Cambodia and Thailand?
The clashes are rooted in disputes over border territories, leading to armed confrontations between the military forces of both nations.
How many people have been affected by the conflict?
Approximately 80,000 villagers have fled their homes, with over 100,000 people evacuated to safer areas.
What measures have been taken for safety?
Cambodia's State Secretariat of Civil Aviation has prohibited flights over conflict zones to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft.
What is the impact on education?
The conflict has resulted in the closure of 536 schools, affecting around 130,000 students.
What are the casualties reported so far?
More than 30 individuals have been reported killed from both sides since the clashes began.
