Thailand and Cambodia traded shots heavily over the weekend, marking a continuing and increasing escalation of violence since clashes began last Thursday. As many as 35 civilians are reported killed so far in the 2023 conflict. At the same time, over 200 have been injured and more than 200,000 people have been displaced. This surge in violence has drawn international attention, prompting former U.S. President Donald Trump to announce ceasefire talks that both nations have agreed to attend.
In the most dramatic move yet, on early Sunday morning, Thailand dramatically ratcheted up the conflict. They then unleashed drone strikes, rockets and artillery on fighting positions inside Cambodian territory. The Cambodian military confirmed the high number of civilian casualties in Oddar Meanchey province. Thirteen people died, and nearly fifty more suffered serious injuries.
Accusations of Aggression
Cambodian officials have condemned Thailand’s actions as “deliberate and premeditated acts of aggression.” Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata strongly condemned the Royal Thai Armed Forces and their persistent attacks. She wanted to underscore the fact that their troops were poised and able to protect their land.
“Our forces are still striking back actively and are not afraid to protect the territory.” – Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata
In response to the conflict, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that any potential ceasefire could not be reached without “sincere intention from the Cambodian side.” The comment is a telling reminder of the history of animosity and suspicion that still smolders between the two countries.
Government spokesperson Major General Jirayu Houngsub defended the Thai government’s actions, emphasizing their commitment to defending national sovereignty. He emphasized, “The Thai Government remains committed to defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Every square inch of it.”
Political Reactions and Criticism
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand’s most popular political figure and daughter of former PM Thaksin, drew sharp backlash for suggesting the conflict because the result of famines. She has been branded a traitor from her domestic opponents for referring to Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen as “uncle.” The Other Side They accuse her of undermining Thailand’s national interests. Her statements seem to belabor her own military’s efforts, while she advocates for diplomacy.
With the situation escalating, prime minister Hun Sen has launched a counter-offensive on social media. He tweeted vitriolic messages aimed at Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn’s father, which only deepened the complicated political scene around the insurgency.
“Resorting to war, the ultimate consequence of which will be the suffering of the people.” – Hun Sen
The two countries will be together at the next round, to be held in Kuala Lumpur. This event hopes to contribute towards bridging that divide, despite the growing violence. On deck This meeting is a highly unusual affair, co-organized by the United States and featuring active Chinese participation.
International Involvement and Future Implications
Breaking almost a week of silence, former President Trump jumped in this morning to sound the alarm. Both countries have since agreed to begin ceasefire talks. He cautioned that ongoing military operations would put at risk important trade agreements with the United States.
“They have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a ceasefire and, ultimately, peace!” – President Donald Trump
Trump said he was unhappy with the violence that continued to escalate at the time, and suggested trade talks would be a waste of time if conflict persisted.
“They are also looking to get back to the ‘Trading Table’ with the United States, which we think is inappropriate to do until such time as the fighting stops.” – President Donald Trump
In the context of these developments, Hun Manet, Cambodia’s new Prime Minister, has expressed a desire to focus on peace. He called for an immediate, mutual and unconditional ceasefire between the military forces of the two countries.
“We’ve proposed a bilateral between our foreign ministers, to conclude what conditions (would be) for ceasefire and drawing back troops and long-range firing weapons.” – Phumtham
The alarming continued hostilities have triggered a grave humanitarian crisis. It presents a huge political opportunity to realign power dynamics across Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, both countries have started preparing for the negotiations in Kuala Lumpur. They are under intense pressure from their own citizens and international observers alike.
