Thailand launched airstrikes against Cambodian forces along their disputed border after troops exchanged fire in a dramatic eruption of tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
The Thai embassy in Cambodia warned its citizens to leave the country as soon as it was safely possible to do so.
- Thailand accused Cambodian troops of firing first
- Cambodia says troops acted in self-defense after Thai incursion
- First clash broke out near temple in disputed border area
- Thailand said its F-16 jets bombed two military headquarters
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Thai government issues statement, recalls ambassador
The Thai government accused Cambodian forces of laying anti-personnel landmines within Thai territory that caused injuries to patrolling troops in recent days, before the latest clash unfolded.
In a statement, the Thai government said “heavy artillery was fired into the Thai military base and continued throughout the morning” on Thursday, July 24, also accusing Cambodian forces of hitting civilian areas, resulting in deaths.
Thailand is recalling its ambassador to Cambodia in response, it said, and requested that Cambodia do the same.
“The Royal Thai Government urges Cambodia to cease its repeated act which constitutes a severe violation of international law,” the statement said.
“Such actions fundamentally contradict the principles of good neighborly relations and good faith, and will further undermine Cambodia’s reputation and credibility on the global stage.
“The Royal Thai Government calls upon Cambodia to take responsibility for the incidents that have occurred, cease attacks against civilian and military targets, and stop all actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty.
“The Royal Thai Government is prepared to intensify our self-defense measures if Cambodia persists in its armed attack and violations upon Thailand’s sovereignty in accordance with international law and principles.”
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