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Renewed Artillery Exchanges at Disputed Border
For the second consecutive day, heavy artillery fire has erupted between Cambodian and Thai forces along their contested border region. Early morning exchanges involved rocket artillery and heavy weapons, with both nations accusing the other of initiating hostilities.
Casualties and Evacuations
Cambodian authorities confirm at least one civilian fatality, while Thailand reports 15 deaths over recent days. Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned these clashes could escalate into full-scale war. Massive evacuations are underway with Cambodia relocating 1,500 border residents and Thailand moving approximately 100,000 people from conflict zones.
Century-Old Territorial Dispute
The current violence stems from a 120-year border conflict dating to the 1904 Franco-Siamese Treaty. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded the Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia in 1962, but surrounding areas remain contested. Tensions reignited earlier this year when Thai soldiers prevented Cambodian tourists from singing their national anthem at the Ta Moan temple complex in February.
International Response
The Netherlands has issued a red-level travel advisory against all travel to the border regions. Approximately 1,000 Dutch tourists remain in Thailand and Cambodia, though none are reported in active conflict zones. Emergency services indicate no assistance requests from Dutch nationals thus far.
