Thailand warns of Cambodian military build-up as sides set to meet in Malaysia

Thailand has warned that Cambodia may be preparing for a large-scale military operation, as deadly border clashes between the two countries entered their fifth day on July 28 — just hours before talks were set to begin in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur.

“Cambodian attacks remain irregular and may constitute violations of rules of engagement, posing further risk to border communities,” said the Thai military's daily summary of the fighting issued on the night of July 27, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The situation remains highly tense, and it is anticipated that Cambodia may be preparing for a major military operation prior to entering negotiations, the report added. 

Cambodia, however, accused Thailand of escalating the violence. Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said Thai forces bombarded Cambodian territory early on July 27, followed by a “large-scale incursion” involving tanks and ground troops in multiple areas.

“Such actions undermine all efforts toward peaceful resolution and expose Thailand’s clear intent to escalate rather than de-escalate the conflict,” she said.

At least 35 people have been killed and more than 270,000 displaced in what has become the most intense fighting between the two countries in over a decade. 

The two Southeast Asian neighbours have a long-running territorial dispute along their shared border, but the latest round of violence broke out on July 24 after several Thai soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion. Both countries have since recalled their ambassadors, with Thailand closing its border crossings with Cambodia and downgrading diplomatic relations.

Each side has blamed the other for the outbreak of hostilities.

In Thailand, authorities reported 22 fatalities, including 14 civilians. Cambodia said 13 people had been killed, although it remains unclear whether that number includes Lt. Gen. Duong Samnieng, whose death in combat was confirmed on July 27.

By Sabina Mammadli