Thailand’s Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew condemned Cambodia’s actions on Thursday following a deadly escalation at the Thai-Cambodian border that left 12 people dead, including 11 civilians and one Thai soldier.
According to Sin Chew Daily, Cholnan said the attacks — which reportedly included strikes near a hospital — should be considered war crimes.
Fatalities across provinces, including an 8yo
The Cambodian government’s actions today, particularly the assault on civilian areas and medical facilities, violate international law and should be treated as war crimes,” he told reporters during a press conference in Bangkok.
According to the Thai military, six civilians were killed during an attack near a petrol station in Sisaket province, while three others — including an 8-year-old boy — were killed in Surin and Ubon Ratchathani provinces.
The violence marks one of the deadliest escalations in recent years between the two neighbouring nations.
Cambodia claims Thailand fired first
According to The Phnom Penh Post, tensions between Thailand and Cambodia erupted earlier this morning at several highly sensitive flashpoints along the border, including Ta Mone Thom Temple, the Mom Bei area, and near the disputed Preah Vihear Temple.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces were the first to attack, targeting Cambodian military positions at the Ta Mone Thom and Ta Krabey temples in Oddar Meanchey province, later expanding their operations to the Mom Bei region.
Cambodia has always adhered to resolving issues peacefully,” said Hun Manet in a social media post.
“But in this case, we have no choice but to respond with force against this armed invasion.”
He added that the Cambodian government and armed forces are fully mobilized to protect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also aiding civilians affected by the conflict.
