As clashes intensify between Thailand and Cambodia over a long-standing territorial dispute, India has voiced its concern and stated it is closely monitoring the situation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued advisories for Indian citizens in both countries, urging them to avoid traveling to the border areas and to contact the respective embassies for assistance in case of any emergency.
The recent escalation, which began on Thursday, has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that at least 32 people have been killed, including civilians and soldiers from both sides. Over 100,000 people have been displaced in just 48 hours, seeking refuge from the violence. The fighting has involved heavy weaponry, including fighter jets, tanks, and artillery, prompting the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the situation.
The Indian Embassy in Cambodia has released a statement advising Indian nationals to avoid traveling to the border areas. The embassy also shared emergency contact information, including a phone number (+855 92881676) and email address (cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in) for citizens who require assistance. A similar advisory was issued by the Indian Embassy in Thailand, cautioning travelers to avoid seven provinces near the Cambodian border: Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Sisaket, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat. They were also advised to stay informed through official Thai channels, such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand's online newsroom.
The conflict stems from a century-old territorial dispute rooted in colonial-era maps. Cambodia refers to the French-drawn boundary from its colonial period before 1953, a claim Thailand disputes. Recent tensions flared when Thailand accused Cambodia of initiating the conflict by flying military drones near Thai troop positions. Cambodia, in turn, claimed that Thai forces violated a previous agreement, triggering the clashes. Both countries have since written to the UNSC, seeking intervention.
India's response to the crisis includes a call for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution of the dispute. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India is closely monitoring the situation and urged Indian travelers in the region to contact local embassies for assistance.
The conflict has raised concerns about the potential impact on regional stability and the safety of civilians. The UNSC has urged both sides to de-escalate, exercise restraint, and resolve the dispute peacefully. Malaysia, which chairs the 10-nation regional bloc that includes both countries, has called for an end to the hostilities and offered to mediate.
As the clashes continue, the international community is closely watching the situation and urging both Thailand and Cambodia to find a peaceful resolution to their long-standing border dispute. The immediate priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians and to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
