Tensions on the Thai-Cambodian border have now turned into a serious armed conflict over the past three days, starting with a shooting incident in the Ta Moan Thom temple area located in the disputed zone between the two countries.
So far, at least two Thai civilians have been killed, while dozens more have been injured, including a five-year-old child, after a missile was believed to have been launched from Cambodian territory on the Kap Choeng district in Surin.
The Thai military claimed that the attack was initiated by Cambodia through the launch of a BM-21 rocket system and in response, Thailand sent six F-16 fighter jets that bombed two military targets in Cambodian territory.
However, Cambodia denied the allegations and described Thailand's actions as a form of aggression that violates international law, including accusing Thai jets of dropping bombs in areas controlled by its army.
Diplomatic tensions also escalated when both countries recalled their ambassadors following a landmine explosion that injured five Thai soldiers.
Cambodia denied involvement in the accident, claiming the explosion was caused by old explosives.
More than 40,000 residents from 86 villages in Thailand have been evacuated from the conflict zone, while several schools and hospitals in Surin province have also been affected by cross-border attacks.
Meanwhile, Thailand's interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stressed that the situation must be handled carefully and in accordance with international law, but assured that his country would continue to defend its territorial sovereignty.
