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Over 100,000 displaced in Thailand-Cambodia conflict
Deployment on the Thai-Cambodian border: Over 100,000 people are on the run as fighting continues for the second day. Current developments and background to the crisis.
Over 100,000 displaced in Thailand-Cambodia conflict
Bangkok, Thailand / Phnom Penh, Cambodia — A second day of intense shelling broke out at the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia on Friday, officials from both countries report. More than a dozen people were killed and over 100,000 civilians were evacuated.
Driving causes of conflict
Tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors have been brewing for months over disputed stretches of their 500-mile (800-kilometer) land border. This boundary was determined in part by France's former colonial rule as well as proximity to several archaeologically significant religious sites claimed by both countries.
Combat operations in several areas
The fighting broke out at 4:30 a.m. local time on Friday after Cambodia opened fire with both small arms and heavy artillery, Col. Richa Sooksuwanon, deputy spokesman for the Thai military, told CNN. The Thai military responded with artillery fire.
Residents are allowed to avoid certain areas
The fighting took place in two locations in Ubon Ratchathani province and one in Surin province. The Thai military warned the public to avoid these areas. Heavy weapons and rocket fire were reported from the Cambodian side.
Military actions and civilian concern
In addition, the military warned that its troops were carrying out demining operations and recovering bodies from Kantharalak district, which was hit by Cambodian rocket fire on Thursday.
Media coverage and international reactions
Videos published by Reuters news agency show Thai artillery firing. Each shot creates loud explosions and smoke. Thursday's fighting included exchanges of fire with small arms and rockets between Thailand, a U.S. ally, and its smaller neighbor Cambodia.
Thai military actions
Thailand used F-16 fighter jets and bombed what it identified as military targets inside Cambodia. Both countries also have close relations with China, which, together with the USA, has called for de-escalation.
Unverified military videos
An undated video shared by the Thai army shows drones dropping bombs on alleged military targets in Cambodia. After the shelling, which apparently took place in wooded areas, smoke and flames shot up. CNN has not yet been able to verify this video.