Half a Million Evacuated as Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute Continues

Hundreds of thousands of people have been evacuated from southeastern Thailand and northwestern Cambodia as border skirmishes and battles continue across the region.

Back in July, tensions quickly rose between Thailand and Cambodia after several border skirmishes, which both countries blamed each other for. The two countries continue to battle over much of their border, which includes dozens of ancient Khmer temples that both countries wish to possess control of.

The situation escalated into full-blown battles, requiring tanks and fighter jets, and at least 38 people were killed. Soon after, negotiations began in Malaysia, and the peace talks resulted in a shaky but successful ceasefire credited to US President Donald Trump.

However, just after the deal was made, both countries claimed that the other had violated the agreement, sparking tensions once again. Thankfully, both countries dropped the argument after several additional border skirmishes, bringing temporary peace to the region and allowing evacuees to return.

Now, the conflict has been re-initiated, with explosions and attacks rocking the border. Once again, both countries blame each other for beginning the battles, but the situation has rapidly become even worse than before. At least 15 people have been killed and over 500,000 locals have been evacuated from border provinces, where the majority of these historic Khmer temples are located.

Cambodia claims that the Thai army fired directly into areas near the Ta Krabey temple, while Thailand claims Cambodia fired into a region near a hospital, injuring civilians.

Many residents were forced to leave with no warning, leaving belongings behind, while others were evacuated by authorities and placed in shelters.

US President Donald Trump has vowed to intervene again to try to stop the conflict, and he has confirmed that a call has been scheduled between him and the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia later today.

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Image credit to Al Jazeera