As gunfire and explosions erupted along the Thai-Cambodian border, thousands of people in Thailand's Surin province fled into bunkers today, July 24, 2025.
The clashes, which are concentrated near the Ta Muen Thom temple, are the result of recent military tensions and a long-standing territorial dispute.
Thai authorities confirmed at least 12 deaths, including an 8-year-old child and a Thai soldier, with dozens more injured.
Shelling also hit villages in nearby provinces, forcing around 40,000 people to evacuate.
The violence follows Thailand’s accusations that Cambodia planted landmines in disputed areas, injuring Thai troops earlier in July.
Thailand retaliated by using airstrikes against military installations in Cambodia.
Cambodia, meanwhile, claimed Thai forces initiated the attack and vowed to defend itself.
Prime Minister Hun Manet called for a UN Security Council meeting and accused Thailand of aggression.
Emergency procedures are in place on both sides, while families remain in shelters, and troops remain on high alert.
The conflict, which is focused on the long-disputed Emerald Triangle, has deep political and historical roots and could get worse despite ASEAN's calls for calm, analysts warn.
