BANGKOK — Violence flared along the disputed Thai-Cambodia border on Wednesday, leaving at least one person dead and three others wounded, as both nations accused each other of opening fire, threatening a fragile US-brokered truce.
The latest escalation follows Thailand’s accusation that Cambodia laid new landmines, which maimed a Thai soldier earlier this week. In response, Thailand demanded an apology from Cambodia and temporarily suspended an enhanced ceasefire agreement signed last month under the mediation of former US President Donald Trump.
Cambodia has denied the landmine charges and urged Thailand to honor the October deal, which was meant to build on a previous ceasefire that ended five days of heavy fighting in July.
Firing Near a Disputed Village
According to Cambodia’s Defense Ministry, the clash occurred near a disputed border village at 3:50 p.m. local time, with Cambodian authorities claiming Thai troops opened fire. The skirmish left one dead and three wounded.
Thai Army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree said Cambodian forces fired first into Thailand. “Thai forces took cover and fired warning shots in response, following rules of engagement,” he explained. He added that no Thai casualties were reported and the incident lasted roughly 10 minutes before calm was restored.
The disputed area is claimed by both countries: Thailand says it belongs to Ban Nong Ya Kaew in Sa Kaeo province, while Cambodia insists it is part of Prey Chan in Banteay Meanchey province. The area has been a flashpoint for previous confrontations.
Tensions Rooted in History and Landmines
The border region has a long history of disputes, dating back more than a century to when France mapped the border in 1907 during its colonial rule over Cambodia.
Since July, clashes have left at least 48 people dead and forced around 300,000 to temporarily flee their homes. Landmines along disputed frontier areas have been a frequent trigger, with at least seven Thai soldiers seriously injured in mine-related incidents since mid-July. Experts have suggested that some of these mines may have been newly laid, intensifying the risk of further clashes.
Calls for Accountability
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry is pressing Cambodia for accountability and preventive measures to avoid future incidents, while Cambodia has remained largely silent on Thailand’s demands.
The border conflict highlights the fragile peace in the region, where centuries-old territorial disputes continue to fuel tension, endanger civilians, and disrupt lives along the 817-km (508-mile) frontier.
As both countries navigate this latest flare-up, observers warn that even a small spark could escalate quickly, threatening the uneasy calm that international mediators have worked to maintain.
