Thai and Cambodian Troops Exchange Fire at Disputed Border

Military forces from Thailand and Cambodia exchanged gunfire early Thursday at a disputed section of their shared border, resulting in injuries to at least two Thai soldiers, according to Thai officials. Both governments accused each other of firing the first shots near the Ta Muen Thom temple, an area that has seen increased troop deployments and rising tensions in recent weeks.

The Thai military reported that Cambodian forces opened fire after deploying a surveillance drone and heavily armed troops into the area. Cambodia's defence ministry, however, stated that its soldiers acted in self-defence after Thai troops allegedly fired first. Cambodian defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata said their troops "exercised their right to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity against the aggression of the Thai troops," and accused Thailand of violating Cambodia's territorial integrity.

Former Cambodian leader Hun Sen claimed on social media that parts of two Cambodian provinces had been shelled by Thai forces, while urging citizens to remain calm. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated online that while Cambodia prefers peaceful solutions, "in this case we have no choice but to respond with armed force against armed aggression."

Thailand's acting prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, described the situation as "delicate" and emphasized the need to resolve the dispute in accordance with international law. The border clash occurred a day after Thailand recalled its ambassador from Cambodia following a landmine explosion that injured a Thai soldier. In response, Bangkok announced plans to expel Cambodia's ambassador. Relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent months, marked by previous armed clashes and reciprocal diplomatic and military actions.