Tension returns between Thailand and Cambodia: 12 dead in latest border escalation

Armed clashes in the “Emerald Triangle”, mutual accusations and closed border. Beijing: ‘Concerned, dialogue and de-escalation are needed’

Armed escalation on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. After weeks of growing tensions, which culminated in violent incidents last May, the two countries have returned to military confrontation in the disputed area of the so-called “Emerald Triangle” on the border with Laos.

According to CNN and BBC reports, the latest escalation took place in the early morning of Thursday 24 July: according to Bangkok, the Cambodian army used drones to monitor Thai troops and subsequently deployed armed forces equipped with RPGs and BM-21 rocket launchers. Bangkok’s response was immediate: the military authorities accused the Cambodians of opening fire first, killing 12 people, including 11 civilians (two minors) and one Thai soldier. The damage also affected private homes and public buildings in the Thai provinces of Surin, Ubon Ratchathani and Srisaket. The border has been closed.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)