Why Are Over 100,000 Cambodians Fleeing As Border Conflict With Thailand Escalates?
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Synopsis
As tensions rise between Cambodia and Thailand, over 100,000 villagers have fled, seeking safety from escalating violence. The situation has drawn international concern, with calls for restraint and dialogue. Discover the impact on local communities and schools, and the urgent need for resolution.
Key Takeaways
- Over 100,000 Cambodians have fled due to escalating violence.
- Thai military actions have included the use of F-16 fighter jets.
- At least seven civilians have been reported killed.
- 514 schools have closed, impacting thousands of students.
- International calls for restraint and dialogue are ongoing.
Phnom Penh, Dec 10 (NationPress) More than 100,000 Cambodian villagers have evacuated their residences to seek refuge in safe zones as the border conflict with Thailand has now reached its fourth day, according to a Cambodian defence spokesperson on Wednesday.
The total number of displaced individuals stands at 101,129, which includes infants, children, expectant mothers, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, stated Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry during a press briefing.
According to her, the Thai military has deployed heavy and devastating weaponry, including F-16 fighter jets, targeting both Cambodian military installations and civilian neighborhoods from Sunday afternoon through Wednesday morning.
Reports indicate that at least seven Cambodian civilians have lost their lives, with another 20 injured amidst this conflict, as reported by Socheata and the Xinhua news agency.
Earlier, a representative of Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged both Thailand and Cambodia to practice restraint and to address their disputes through dialogue and negotiation, as mentioned in an official statement.
"Singapore is deeply troubled by the recent resurgence of clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border and the casualties reported on both sides. We urge both nations to exercise restraint and to resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiation, in the spirit and principles of the Joint Declaration," said the spokesperson in response to media inquiries.
"This is vital for the long-term relationship between Cambodia and Thailand, as well as for the broader interests of ASEAN," the spokesperson added.
The statement also recommended that Singaporeans postpone any travel to the conflict-affected areas in the Thai-Cambodian border regions. Citizens of Singapore currently in Cambodia and Thailand were advised to keep abreast of official news sources, adhere to local government advisories, and maintain vigilance for their safety.
On Tuesday, Cambodia announced that a total of 514 schools in border provinces have been closed due to the ongoing clashes with Thailand.
"As of December 9, 2025, 514 schools have been shut down, impacting around 130,000 students and 4,650 teachers," stated the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport in a press release.
The provinces primarily affected include Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, and Banteay Meanchey, as noted in the press release.
The conflict at the Cambodia-Thailand border has reignited since Sunday afternoon.
On Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata confirmed that seven Cambodian civilians had died in this conflict.
Cambodian Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra reported that approximately 16,568 Cambodian families, totaling 54,550 individuals, have fled their homes near the border seeking safe shelter.
The Cambodian Defence Ministry, in a press release on Tuesday, stated that the Thai military continued its assault on Cambodian forces and civilians throughout the night of Monday into early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of two Cambodian civilians traveling on the national highway.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the humanitarian consequences. With over 100,000 displaced individuals, the situation calls for immediate attention and resolution. As a national editor-in-chief, our stance remains with the nation, advocating for peace and dialogue to safeguard the lives of those affected.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand?
The conflict has arisen from longstanding territorial disputes and military skirmishes along the border, which have escalated recently.
How many people have been displaced due to the conflict?
Over 101,129 individuals have been displaced, including vulnerable populations such as women, children, and the elderly.
What has been the international response to this situation?
International entities, including Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have called for both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.
What impact has the conflict had on education?
A total of 514 schools have been closed in border provinces, affecting approximately 130,000 students and 4,650 teachers.
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians?
Authorities are advising residents to seek shelter and are monitoring the situation closely to ensure civilian safety.
