Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: 9 Dead in Airstrike; 118-Year-Old Border Dispute Resurfaces

Tensions between neighboring countries Thailand and Cambodia have intensified in recent days. Thailand has officially announced airstrikes on two Cambodian military bases, resulting in at least 9 deaths. Six people were killed at a gas station in Si Sa Ket province. At least 14 civilians were injured in these attacks.

The Cambodian Ministry of Defense stated that Thai fighter jets dropped bombs on roads near the Preah Vihear Temple. This 11th-century temple is dedicated to Shiva and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008.

This border dispute began with a map created by the French in 1907. According to this map, it was clear that the Preah Vihear Temple was within Cambodian territory. The International Court of Justice also recognized Cambodia's claim in 1962. However, both countries claim the land surrounding the temple as their own.

On Thursday, another shooting incident occurred in the Ta Muen Thom temple area. Thailand accused Cambodian soldiers of attacking civilians, while Cambodia accused Thailand of infringing on its sovereignty. The border conflict has created an atmosphere of fear among the citizens of both countries. The global community is calling for peace.