The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has entered its third day, with Thai military forces successfully capturing a significant Cambodian military base in the disputed border region, according to Thai media reports. At 9:20 AM Thai time on July 26, Thai forces took complete control of the strategically important Cambodian military base located at Phu Makhuea mountain along the Thai-Cambodian border, where they subsequently raised the Thai national flag. The operation resulted in the deaths of 10 Cambodian soldiers and the seizure of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition.
The Cambodian military has responded to the loss of their base with heavy artillery fire in an attempt to reclaim the position, and fighting continues between the two forces. Despite efforts by Malaysia, the current ASEAN chair, to mediate peace talks between Thailand and Cambodia, no successful resolution has been achieved thus far. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about regional stability and the effectiveness of ASEAN’s conflict resolution mechanisms.
Thousands of Cambodian nationals working in Thailand have begun evacuating through border checkpoints back to their home country due to the escalating conflict. Thai authorities are providing necessary assistance to facilitate the safe return of Cambodian citizens who wish to leave. Regional political analysts suggest that both sides should pursue diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation of tensions between the two nations. The situation continues to be closely monitored by neighboring countries and international observers, as the conflict has potential implications for regional stability and bilateral relations between Thailand and Cambodia.
