Phnom Penh, July 26, 2025 – Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have erupted into the deadliest border conflict in over a decade, prompting Cambodia to issue an urgent call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. As fighting enters its third day, the death toll has risen sharply, with dozens killed and tens of thousands displaced on both sides.

Escalating Violence Along the Border

The crisis began earlier this week when a landmine explosion near a disputed section of the Cambodia–Thailand border injured several Thai soldiers. Both sides blamed each other for the incident, but what followed was a rapid escalation into full-scale armed clashes. Artillery fire, airstrikes, and ground troop movements have since turned once-quiet rural areas into active war zones.

Eyewitnesses report damage to villages, schools, and even cultural heritage sites near the border. Civilian casualties are mounting, and entire communities have been forced to flee.

Casualties and Displacement

As of Saturday, official figures estimate the death toll at over 30, including both military personnel and civilians. Cambodia has reported at least 13 fatalities and more than 70 injuries, while Thailand has confirmed 20 deaths and dozens wounded.

The humanitarian impact is growing rapidly. More than 35,000 Cambodians and over 130,000 Thai civilians have been evacuated from their homes, taking shelter in makeshift camps and emergency facilities.

Cambodia’s Plea for Peace

In a public address and formal appeal to international organizations, the Cambodian government urged Thailand to halt all military operations immediately. Cambodian officials insist the country was not the aggressor and that it seeks only to defend its sovereignty and protect its citizens.

“Our people are suffering, and we must act now to stop the violence,” said a Cambodian spokesperson. “We call on Thailand to join us in declaring an immediate ceasefire and return to the negotiating table.”

Cambodia also appealed to regional partners and the United Nations to intervene diplomatically to prevent further escalation.

Thailand’s Response

Thailand has stated it is open to dialogue but maintains that its military actions are defensive, following what it claims were unprovoked attacks by Cambodian forces. Thai officials have accused Cambodia of targeting civilian infrastructure and violating international law—allegations Cambodia strongly denies.

Despite rising casualties, Thai leaders have not confirmed participation in any formal ceasefire agreement. Instead, Thailand has expressed interest in third-party mediation, possibly through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), though talks remain uncertain.

Regional and Global Concern

The international community has expressed deep concern over the growing conflict. ASEAN has offered to mediate, and several global powers have urged both nations to de-escalate and protect civilians.

UN officials have called for restraint and emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent a broader regional crisis. Human rights groups have also begun calling for investigations into reports of civilian casualties and the use of banned weapons in the conflict.

Looking Ahead

With lives at stake and trust between the two countries quickly deteriorating, the urgency for peace is growing by the hour. Cambodia’s call for a ceasefire is a critical step toward halting the violence, but without cooperation from Thailand and support from the international community, the situation could spiral further out of control.