"The embassy is closely monitoring the tension between Thailand and Cambodia and informs everyone that the situation is constantly escalating, with clashes occurring in several border areas. These clashes could be prolonged and escalate further. Thai citizens should leave Cambodia as soon as possible, unless they must stay for urgent reasons," the Thai embassy in Phnom Penh posted on Facebook on 24/7.

The post also urged Thai citizens not to travel to Cambodia at this time, until the situation is resolved.

The Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photo: Facebook/Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh

The Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photo: Facebook/Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh

Armed clashes erupted between Thailand and Cambodia along the disputed border area on 24/7. The Thai military said Cambodia deployed reconnaissance drones before sending armed soldiers to the area near the disputed Ta Moan Thom temple along the eastern border.

Gunfire then broke out between the two sides, killing two civilians near the Thai border and injuring two others. Around 40,000 residents from 86 villages near the Thai border have been evacuated to safety.

According to a Thai military spokesperson, Cambodia used various weapons, including rocket launchers, forcing the Thai military to respond with artillery fire.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense said Thai forces had launched an unprovoked incursion and Phnom Penh responded in self-defense. Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen said two Cambodian provinces had been shelled by the Thai military and urged people to remain calm.

Acting Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Wechayachai said the situation is sensitive. "We must be cautious and will comply with international law," he said.

Cambodia-Thailand relations have become increasingly tense following a shootout between the two countries' forces in an undemarcated border area near the Preah Vihear temple in late May, which killed a Cambodian soldier. Both sides claimed to have acted in self-defense.

On 23/7, acting Prime Minister Phumtham accused Cambodia of planting landmines in the disputed border area where the May clash occurred, injuring a Thai soldier. He then decided to expel the Cambodian ambassador and recall the Thai ambassador, declaring that he would downgrade diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The Cambodian government took similar action the following day in response, announcing a downgrade of relations with Thailand to "the lowest level" and recalling its diplomats in Bangkok.

Huyen Le (According to AFP, Reuters)