Thailand has imposed martial law in eight border districts on Friday (July 25) after a second consecutive day of deadly clashes with Cambodia, stoking fears of a broader conflict.
The order, covering seven districts in Chanthaburi and one in Trat, was announced by Apichart Sapprasert, Commander of the military’s Border Defence Command in the eastern provinces.
The violence, which has already claimed at least 15 lives and displaced over 138,000 people in Thailand alone, marks a dangerous escalation in a long-simmering border dispute. Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned that the situation “could develop into war” as both sides continue to exchange heavy fire.
Artillery thuds echoed across the border on Fridaywith Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province reporting the death of a 70-year-old civilian and injuries to five others. Thailand’s Health Ministry confirmed 14 civilian deaths and one soldier killed, with 46 others wounded, including 15 troops.
Thursday’s (July 24) confrontations centred around six flashpoints, including areas near ancient temples, with Cambodian forces reportedly launching rockets and shells into Thai territory. Thailand retaliated with F-16 jets targeting Cambodian military positions. Thailand has also accused Cambodia of targeting civilian sites, including a hospital and a petrol station.
Advisory for Indians
Amid the escalation, the Indian Embassy in Thailand has issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid travel to provinces bordering Cambodia. The advisory, released on July 25, called for vigilance and recommended following updates from Thai authorities, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
As the region braces for further unrest, both sides continue to trade blame for initiating hostilities, raising international concern over the potential for a full-scale war.
Also Read: Explained | Why Thailand and Cambodia are fighting over ancient Hindu temples
