Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
The conflict along the Thailand-Cambodia border saw its first civilian death confirmed by Thailand, escalating tensions that have left at least 28 dead, including soldiers and civilians. This resurgence of violence has its roots in a long-standing territorial dispute, with over 800,000 people displaced as fighting continues unabated, according to thejakartapost and channelnewsasia.
Renewed airstrikes by Thailand have intensified, with Cambodian officials reporting that Thai F-16 jets bombed areas of Siem Reap province, less than 80 kilometers from the renowned Angkor Wat temple complex. The first such incident targeting this significant cultural site represents a worrying escalation in the conflict, affecting both tourism and civilian safety, as noted by scmp and aljazeera.
As military actions continue, both nations are engaged in a war of words, with claims of self-defense exchanged as each side blames the other for inciting violence. Thailand has denied any wrongdoing, while rampant airstrikes have positioned Cambodia's defenses into a precarious situation, further complicating prospects for peace, according to channelnewsasia, scmp, and aljazeera.
In the tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s economy, officials expressed grave concerns that the ongoing conflict could deter foreign visitors, especially as attacks draw closer to major tourist attractions. Reports suggest that ticket sales to the Angkor archaeological park have declined significantly, further emphasizing the potential long-term economic impact of these military conflicts, according to channelnewsasia and aljazeera.