Thailand has accused Cambodia of "deliberately" breaching a newly established ceasefire designed to quell border clashes that have already claimed at least 33 lives and displaced thousands. The ceasefire, agreed upon on Monday, came into effect amid a backdrop of intense bombardment and rocket strikes along their contentious border.
According to the Thai military, artillery fire ceased on their side shortly after midnight, but they continued to face incoming gunfire from Cambodia at various locations throughout the morning. In contrast, Cambodia's defense ministry stated that there have been "no armed clashes" reported since the ceasefire's initiation.
Notwithstanding the disputes, local commanders from both nations met on Tuesday as part of the ceasefire agreement, implementing measures such as halting troop movements at the frontier and allowing each side to retrieve their deceased soldiers.
The escalating tensions stem from a long-standing border dispute, with skirmishes intensifying following the fatality of a Cambodian soldier in May and subsequent injuries to Thai troops from a landmine incident. In response, Thailand has taken measures to restrict border access, including the expulsion of the Cambodian ambassador, while Cambodia retaliated with rocket attacks that resulted in civilian casualties on both sides.
As exchanges of fire persisted until the ceasefire deadline, local officials are calling for ceasefire monitoring to prevent future conflicts. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, anticipating the ceasefire's success, asserted that "the frontlines have eased" since it took effect.
The tension between the two nations has historical roots, significantly deteriorating following Cambodia's attempt to register a contested temple as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008, which provoked strong reactions from Thailand. Sporadic clashes over the years have led to fatalities on both sides, with border restrictions being implemented recently, further straining bilateral relations.
