Rabat – Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated sharply. Thailand’s foreign minister told Al Jazeera there is “no space for diplomacy” in the current conflict, accusing Cambodia of not honoring the ceasefire and continuing “actions on the ground” that contradict its calls for peace.
Meanwhile, Cambodia says Thai attacks resumed on Tuesday morning, killing at least seven civilians, while Thailand reports three soldiers killed and 29 injured.
Cambodia accused Thailand of “profound immorality” after the 11th-century Prasat Ta Krabey temple was hit and destroyed. The site, in disputed territory, is part of the Khmer heritage, known in Thailand as Ta Kwai. The Cambodian Ministry of Culture shared video evidence of the impact.
Cambodia reports nine civilian deaths and 20 injured since Monday, while Thailand reports three soldiers killed.
Over 21,000 Cambodians evacuated from three provinces; schools closed; 1,000 inmates transferred for safety.
Thailand has set up nearly 500 shelters for more than 125,000 displaced people in four border provinces.
France and Australia voiced concern, urging both sides to immediately uphold the US-and Malaysia-brokered ceasefire agreed earlier this year. Amnesty International called on both governments to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.
Analysts say the July and October ceasefires, co-signed by the Trump administration, were “forced” and lacked enforcement mechanisms. Rising nationalism and contested historical claims, particularly over temples along the border, have reignited the conflict.
Thailand says Cambodia laid new landmines, violating the deal, while Cambodia accuses Thailand of renewed air attacks and aggression. Thailand has also refused to release 18 Cambodian soldiers detained since July, saying it will only do so after Cambodia complies with the agreement.
Meanwhile, fighting continues along the border, particularly in Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, and Banteay Meanchey provinces. Local administrations, including Poipet city, have issued urgent shelter warnings as the risk of air raids increases.
