Thailand-Cambodia border clashes leave at least 11 dead

A long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia escalated sharply on Thursday, leading to heavy clashes that left at least 11 people dead, according to reports.

The two Southeast Asian neighbours have blamed each other for triggering what is being described as the most severe border violence in 14 years, with fighting reported in at least six areas along their shared frontier. Tensions have been rising since May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a gunfire exchange.

Thailand reported that its fighter jets struck two Cambodian military positions near the border on Thursday, while rockets launched from the Cambodian side reportedly killed several civilians in Thailand. According to Thailand’s health ministry, among the 11 Thai civilian deaths was an eight-year-old boy, while 24 others were injured in the attacks. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also confirmed that one Thai soldier was killed during the clashes.

The situation has raised concerns over further escalation in the region as both countries continue to exchange accusations over who initiated the violence.