• Thai police used tear gas and rubber bullets against Cambodian protesters, injuring at least 29 civilians.
• The incident marks a significant escalation just weeks after a ceasefire was brokered following deadly clashes.
• Cambodia's PM has accused Thailand of illegally occupying land and evicting families from their homes.

On September 17, Thai police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at Cambodian civilians near a disputed border area, leading to injuries among at least 29 Cambodians including local villagers and Buddhist monks, according to reports from Cambodian authorities and local media. This escalation comes as the most significant violence since the ceasefire declared in July after clashes left dozens dead and hundreds of thousands displaced. Thai military officials also reported injuries among their personnel during the protests, which involved around 200 Cambodians, some throwing stones and slingshots, demonstrating against perceived encroachments by Thai forces, according to Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.

Cambodian officials, including Prime Minister Hun Manet, have strongly condemned the actions of Thai forces. Manet accused Thailand of encroaching into Cambodian territory and using excessive force against protesters, highlighting that civilians were attempting to protect their homes. He also sought international support to address what he described as unilateral actions by Thailand that threaten to escalate the situation further, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

The clashes occurred in a contested settlement near the border where tensions have existed for decades due to unresolved territorial disputes dating back to colonial demarcation efforts. The Thai military has justified its use of force as necessary to prevent "civil disorder," citing acts of provocation from Cambodian protesters, as stated by military spokespersons. Complaints regarding the situation's volatility and calls for a reduction in tensions have been voiced by both governments, according to Reuters and Anadolu Agency.

In light of recent conflicts, Cambodian governmental statements have emphasized the need for de-escalation, urging Thailand to respect maritime and international laws regarding borders, especially as the plight of displaced families continues. With over 20 families reportedly prevented from returning home, Hun Manet has raised concerns with the United Nations over the potential for wider conflict due to Thailand's military actions, proposing a collaborative effort for peaceful resolution, as mentioned by South China Morning Post, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.