Conflict between Thailand and Cambodia escalates

The situation on the border between Thailand and Cambodia has deteriorated dramatically once again. The ceasefire agreed upon in October is practically no longer in effect. Since Sunday, both countries have reported attacks and blame each other for the renewed fighting.

Thai aircraft are reported to have bombed Cambodian border areas. Simultaneously, there are reports of clashes on land and at sea. Cambodia speaks of a clear breach of the agreement and emphasizes that it initially acted with restraint. Now, it says, it must defend itself. Thailand also points to attacks originating from its neighbor.

Heavy fighting is taking place in many locations along the long border. Numerous villages have been evacuated. In total, well over one hundred thousand people are displaced or housed in emergency shelters. Media outlets on both sides are reporting deaths and injuries.

Experts see Thailand as having a clear military advantage. The risk of further escalation remains high. At the same time, concerns are growing for the civilian population, as well as for trade and labor migration between the two countries.

US President Donald Trump has once again signaled his willingness to mediate, having already supported the previous ceasefire. Whether a return to dialogue will be successful remains to be seen. The German Foreign Office is already advising against travel to the border region, while the Austrian Foreign Ministry has so far only issued a high security risk assessment.