What is the Current Death Toll in Thailand from Border Clashes with Cambodia?
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Synopsis
The ongoing clashes at the Thailand-Cambodia border have led to a tragic rise in casualties, prompting international concern. With calls for restraint and dialogue, the situation is evolving rapidly, impacting both nations' political landscapes.
Key Takeaways
- 14 Thai fatalities reported due to border clashes.
- 46 individuals injured in military confrontations.
- International calls for dialogue and restraint.
- Thailand has closed all land border crossings.
- Political implications for Thailand's government amidst the crisis.
Bangkok, July 25 (NationPress) The recent military confrontations near the Thailand-Cambodia border have resulted in fourteen fatalities and 46 injuries among Thai nationals, as reported by the deputy spokesperson of the Ministry of Public Health.
As of Thursday evening, there has been no communication from Cambodia regarding its casualties, according to Xinhua news agency.
In a statement from Bangkok, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin confirmed the deaths of 13 civilians and one soldier, along with the injuries sustained by 46 individuals.
He denounced the actions of Cambodia, labeling them as attacks on civilians and even a hospital: "We implore the Cambodian government to immediately cease these actions deemed as war crimes and to adhere to the principles of peaceful coexistence."
These violent outbreaks followed a landmine explosion on Wednesday that injured five Thai soldiers, leading to the expulsion of ambassadors from both nations and a significant diplomatic crisis.
Thai authorities accused Cambodia of deploying new Russian-made landmines; however, Cambodia has dismissed these claims as unfounded allegations, attributing the situation to remnants of past conflicts.
On Thursday, hostilities erupted in at least six locations along the border, particularly near the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple.
In retaliation, Thai F-16 fighter jets carried out airstrikes against what the government identified as Cambodian rocket-launching trucks.
"This was an act of self-defense," stated Thai Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura.
The tensions escalated from skirmishes that began early Thursday morning, with both nations accusing each other of breaching international laws.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for the UN Security Council to hold an urgent meeting to deliberate on the situation.
Cambodia's Defense Ministry reported that the airstrikes impacted a road near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Preah Vihear and vowed to pursue legal action.
According to Cambodia’s Culture Ministry, "The temple was designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO and is a historical legacy of the Cambodian people."
Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, emphasized that Cambodia had "no option but to defend its territory against Thai threats," asserting that the strikes were aimed exclusively at military targets.
The conflict has drawn immediate international attention.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on both parties to "exercise maximum restraint and resolve any disputes through dialogue," as stated by deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq.
Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia requested an emergency session, which took place behind closed doors in New York on Friday.
Thailand has closed all land border crossings and advised its citizens to evacuate Cambodia.
All seven Thai airlines are prepared to assist in repatriating Thai nationals.
Meanwhile, the conflict is intensifying pressures on Thailand's internal politics.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended on July 1 due to an ethics investigation concerning her communications with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.
Currently, Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is spearheading the response, cautioning Cambodia against any further aggression.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the complexity of the Thailand-Cambodia border situation. Both nations share a long history of disputes, but the recent escalation demands a focus on diplomacy and international dialogue to prevent further loss of life and promote peace.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the clashes between Thailand and Cambodia?
The clashes initiated following a landmine explosion that injured Thai soldiers, leading to accusations of military aggression from both sides.
How many casualties have been reported?
Currently, there are fourteen reported deaths and 46 injuries among Thai nationals.
What actions have been taken by both governments?
Both governments have engaged in military actions, with Thailand conducting airstrikes and Cambodia calling for international intervention.
What is the international community's response?
The United Nations has urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully.
What is Thailand's current political situation in light of the conflict?
The conflict has intensified internal pressures on Thailand's political landscape, particularly affecting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's leadership.
