Bangkok: Amid a growing wave of violence along their shared border, Thailand and Cambodia have exchanged accusations over responsibility for the escalating clashes and resulting casualties. The conflict, which has persisted for over a decade, has seen both governments pointing fingers at one another.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the tensions have been further complicated by differing responses to a ceasefire initiative proposed by Malaysia, acting as the chief of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Thailand claims its military actions are in defense against ongoing and indiscriminate attacks by Cambodian forces. Conversely, Cambodia accuses Thailand of committing war crimes and violating its sovereignty through airstrikes.
In an official statement, Thailand's foreign ministry alleged that Cambodian forces have persistently attacked Thai territories without distinction regarding targets. Meanwhile, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that both nations had initially agreed to a ceasefire proposal by Malaysian Premier Anwar Ibrahim, but accused Thailand of later withdrawing from the agreement.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Manet urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene in the ongoing conflict. The border dispute between the two nations stems from historical disagreements over the sovereignty of the Preah Vihear Temple and its surrounding area. Although the International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 that the temple and its promontory belong to Cambodia, Thailand continues to assert control over the surrounding regions.