A tense border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified for a second consecutive day, expanding into new areas as both countries exchange accusations of targeting civilians and violating ceasefire terms.
The latest escalation comes amid growing outrage after footage surfaced showing Cambodian forces involving women and children in handling mortar shells during active military operations.
The renewed clashes, which began on Monday, have seen both sides blame each other for initiating hostilities. Thailand has accused Cambodian forces of shelling civilian communities, while Cambodia claims Thai troops fired the first shots. Heavy fighting along the contested border has raised concerns about a broader regional crisis if tensions continue to spiral.
The use of non-combatants—especially women and children—near live ammunition has sparked international concern, as it violates widely recognized wartime protection norms. Observers warn that exposing civilians to frontline activities not only endangers lives but also risks further inflaming the conflict.
The violence threatens to derail a fragile ceasefire that was brokered in July by U.S. President Donald Trump. With both countries now pressing forward with military operations and negotiations stalled, it remains uncertain whether the truce can be restored or if the conflict will deepen.
As border communities face displacement and rising casualties, international calls for de-escalation are growing. For now, the situation remains volatile, with hopes for peace overshadowed by expanding hostilities and humanitarian concerns.
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