Border Tensions Rise: Indian Embassy Cautions Nationals as Thailand-Cambodia Clashes Intensify
Thailand-Cambodia border conflict intensifies. Indian Embassy issues advisory & helpline for nationals. Avoid travel to affected regions.
Thailand-Cambodia Border Clashes: Indian Embassy Issues Advisory for Nationals
The Indian Embassy in Cambodia has issued an urgent advisory for its nationals residing in the country, urging them to avoid travel to border areas amidst escalating military clashes between Thailand and Cambodia. The advisory, released on Saturday, underscores the volatile situation that has seen tens of thousands displaced and a rising death toll.
The Embassy has also provided a dedicated helpline number for Indian citizens in case of emergencies: +855 92881676, or they can email [email protected].
The ongoing conflict intensified over the weekend, with both nations trading accusations of initiating hostilities. The latest flare-up, rooted in a long-running border dispute, has led to significant casualties and a growing humanitarian crisis.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amidst Renewed Fighting
The clashes, which entered their third day on Saturday, have forced mass evacuations. Thai health officials reported over 58,000 people fleeing to temporary shelters across four border provinces. On the Cambodian side, authorities confirmed more than 23,000 evacuations from areas near the border.
Cambodia's UN Ambassador Chhea Keo called for an "immediate ceasefire, unconditionally" during an emergency meeting, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution. He strongly refuted accusations of Cambodian aggression, questioning how a smaller nation without an air force could attack a significantly larger military.
Casualties Mount as Accusations Fly
Reports indicate a clash occurring around 5:00 AM (2200 GMT Friday), with Cambodia alleging that Thai forces fired "five heavy artillery shells" into Pursat province, bordering Thailand's Trat province.
The escalating violence has tragically claimed at least 19 lives on the Thai side, predominantly civilians. Cambodia, meanwhile, reported 12 additional fatalities on Saturday, bringing its total death toll to 13. Both nations continue to blame each other for instigating the conflict. Thailand has also accused Cambodia of targeting civilian infrastructure, citing hits on a hospital and a petrol station.
As the situation remains fluid, Indian nationals are strongly advised to heed the Embassy's warning and prioritize their safety by staying clear of the volatile border regions.
