As many of you know, fighting has again broken out along the Thailand-Cambodia border. This tragic conflict erupted just hours before the two nations’ foreign ministers were to meet in Malaysia. The confrontation, which has escalated despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, underscores the fragile situation in the region as the two countries seek to address their hostilities.
The meeting is set to take place on Wednesday, where Cambodia’s Foreign Minister will engage with Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to discuss steps aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict. Both countries are under growing pressures that put at risk peace and security along their shared border, particularly in Poipet town and Banteay Meanchey province.
Cambodia’s Defence Ministry has accused Thailand of intentionally killing fish on their side of the border. They allege that Thailand used F-16 fighter jets to carry out air strikes including bombing in the specified area. Cambodian officials alleged that Thailand had used “toxic gas” in these incursions unmatched, and conduct of invaders into the Cambodian territory. The Agerce Kampuchea Press state news agency was the first to report these allegations. This helps to illustrate the extremity of the crisis.
According to reports, Thai aerial bombardment has damaged facilities in Poipet town, in particular a garage owned by Thais. The continuation of this violence is of great concern to Palestinians on the ground and the international community. The impacts of these military activities extend beyond the borders of these countries and territorial occupations.
Even through considerable and ongoing diplomatic efforts, the reality of continued conflicts between the two countries has proven that a negotiated end is still far from reach. The upcoming meeting in Malaysia is viewed as an essential opportunity for both sides to engage in dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution. With the recent return to extensive fighting, it’s unclear how fruitful these talks could be or even what would happen should they succeed.
