The Unbiased Post Logo
Sunday 22/02/2026

Escalating Border Conflict: Cambodia Calls for Ceasefire with Thailand

Military forces and displaced civilians at Cambodia-Thailand border

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire with Thailand amid escalating border clashes that have resulted in over 30 deaths.
  • The conflict has displaced nearly 200,000 people, with Thailand evacuating 140,000 and Cambodia 35,000 from border areas.
  • Both countries accuse each other of initiating the conflict, with Cambodia alleging the use of cluster munitions by Thailand.
  • Thailand's acting Prime Minister warned that the situation could escalate into war, as heavy weaponry is now involved.
  • International leaders, including those from ASEAN and the US, have urged for a peaceful resolution and offered mediation.

The border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand has intensified, with Cambodia urging an immediate ceasefire as the death toll surpasses 30. The clashes, which began on Thursday, have led to the displacement of nearly 200,000 people, marking the most severe escalation in over a decade.

Rising Tensions and Casualties

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Thailand reports 19 deaths, including 13 civilians, while Cambodia has confirmed 13 fatalities. The violence has forced mass evacuations, with Thailand relocating 140,000 people and Cambodia moving 35,000 from the affected regions. The clashes have spread across multiple provinces, with heavy artillery and airstrikes reported.

Accusations and Military Escalation

Both nations blame each other for the outbreak of violence. Cambodia accuses Thailand of using banned cluster munitions, while Thailand claims Cambodian forces initiated the conflict by deploying drones for surveillance. The situation has escalated to include heavy weaponry, prompting Thailand's acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, to warn of a potential war.

International Calls for Peace

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions. The United Nations and ASEAN have called for restraint, while Malaysia has offered to mediate. The US has also urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians. Despite these calls, Thailand remains firm in its stance against third-party mediation.

Human Impact and Evacuation Efforts

The humanitarian impact is profound, with evacuees like Maneerat Kote-Bandit recounting the panic and urgency of fleeing their homes. In Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani province, shelters have been set up to accommodate those displaced, providing basic necessities and a semblance of safety away from the conflict zone.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand poses significant risks of further escalation if not addressed promptly. The involvement of heavy weaponry and the potential for increased casualties could draw more international attention and pressure for a resolution. If diplomatic channels remain closed, the likelihood of prolonged conflict increases, potentially destabilizing the region further. Experts suggest that successful mediation by ASEAN or another neutral party could pave the way for a peaceful resolution, but both nations must first agree to dialogue and compromise.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Sun Weitong/Xinhua News Agency/eyevine
Additional article image
Image Source: AP